International Intelligence Liaison Institutional Arrangements and Their Impact on Peace and Security in Uganda and Kenya

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of international intelligence liaison institutional arrangements on peace and security in Uganda and Kenya. Given the increasing complexity of security threats, including terrorism, insurgencies, and cross-border crimes, effective inter-agency cooperation and regional coordination have become critical. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 75 respondents using structured questionnaires and from 20 key informants through in-depth interviews. The respondents included personnel from national intelligence agencies, regional security bodies, diplomatic missions, and other government security institutions. Quantitative findings indicate that formal liaison agreements and joint operational assessments are largely in place and viewed positively, with mean scores ranging from 3.75 to 4.12 on a 5-point scale. However, gaps exist in operational implementation, real-time intelligence sharing, and inter-agency trust, with these factors limiting the full potential of collaborative efforts. Qualitative results reinforce these concerns, revealing challenges such as mandate overlaps, political interference, limited community engagement, and insufficient integration of socio-economic factors into security planning. Participants underscored the need for enhanced trust-building, clear command structures, and stronger regional enforcement mechanisms to improve collective security responses. Additionally, socio-economic development was identified as a vital complement to security initiatives in addressing root causes of instability. The study concludes that while Kenya and Uganda have made significant strides in establishing institutional frameworks for intelligence cooperation, more robust operational coordination and inclusive approaches are necessary to sustain peace and security. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, regional organizations, and international partners aiming to strengthen security governance in East Africa.