Why KDF strategy is succeeding in crushing Al Shabaab (Pt1)

By Peter Nguli
The entry of Kenya Defence Forces into Somalia in October 2011 shocked the world; it was a case of a peaceful country up in arms after tolerating decades of suppression due to its tolerant self. This perception was wrong; Kenya is a peaceful country.

Kenya sent troops into Somalia in October last year, accusing the Al-Qaeda-linked group Al Shabaab of abducting foreigners from its soil - charges denied by the militants. Faced by a series of abductions, Kenya had no alternative but to make a bold step to secure its borders and safeguard her sovereignty. Kenya's geopolitics and her strategic importance underscore the need for multi-pronged efforts to stymie regional conflicts and internal security threats.
The Strategy
Ever since Kenya made the incursion, her military has routed the militants, one town after another using the most unique strategy ever used to counter an army run by terrorists. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have killed hundreds and hundreds of Al-Shabaab troops, captured strategic towns formerly held by the militants, trained and positioned Somali government forces in liberated areas. Al-Shabaab has been weakened, on the run, and confused. It lacks the basic requirements such as leadership and money to make inroads in its quest to remain in power. South Somalia recently was Al-Shabaabs stronghold and economic nerve centre, not any more.