Thursday, April 4, 2024
Northeastern Muslim leaders have been urged to demystify misconceptions used to justify terrorism.
The misconceptions are used by al Shabaab militants to carry out their terrorist activities.
Sheikh Ibrahim Lithome said unless religious leaders partner with the government, war against terrorism will not be won.
He said it is unfortunate that religion is being used to radicalise people.
“If used properly, religion can bring civility, peace and cohesion. But unfortunately, al Shabaab is using it to shed blood,” Lithome said.
“We need to identify strategies that we can use to promote intra faith dialogue because we are currently experiencing tension. Diversity is God's plan and not an accident and Al Shabaab activities are also affecting our peaceful co-existence.”
He spoke at Garissa University during the launch of an online information portal by the National Counter Terrorism Centre.
NCTC director Rosalind Nyawira urged Kenyans to visit the portal https://lasiri.go.ke to learn more about violent extremism.
The portal named Jasiri Observatory, has tips on how to avoid falling prey to radical ideologies that propagate hate, fear and violence.
It will be used to sensitise, inform and empower individuals and communities to understand and respond to violent ideologies peddled by extremist groups.
It will also strengthen ongoing efforts to prevent and counter violent extremism by directly addressing underlying drivers through messaging, public outreach and de-radicalisation programmes.
"Violent extremism is a threat to national security. This portal empowers individuals and communities to identify and discredit violent extremist ideologies, facilitating public dialogue on the threat of violent extremism," Nyawira said.
"We want Kenyans to speak out against violent extremism through this portal, hence the appellation 'Jasiri' which is Swahili for resilience."
The portal was launched during the 9th anniversary of the 2015 Garissa attack.
"This is an opportune moment to reflect on the strides made towards making our country safer from terrorism and violent extremism," Nyawira said.
Garissa University Vice Chancellor Professor Ahmed Warfa said the portal is a big milestone in the fight against terrorism.
“Nine years ago, our campus was shaken to its core by an act of senseless violence that claimed the lives of many promising young individuals, forever altering the course of their futures and leaving scars that still linger in our hearts,” he said.
“As we reflect on this day, we remember the lives lost, the families shattered and the profound impact this event has had on our community. We honour the memory of those who were taken from us far too soon and we stand in solidarity with their loved ones who continue to grieve their loss."
“As Vice Chancellor of Garissa University, I am deeply humbled by the courage and resilience displayed by our students, faculty, and staff in the aftermath of this devastating attack. Together, we have overcome immense challenges and worked tirelessly to create a safe and nurturing learning environment for all," Warfa said.
He commended the community's resilience and strength that has brought them together to rebuild what was broken.