THE SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IMMIGRATION AND NATIONAL SECURITY; A STUDY OF KENYA’S MIGRATION MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine if there is a symbiotic relationship between Kenya’s immigration management and national security. The work set out to achieve three major objectives. Firstly, to determine if a symbiotic relationship exists between Kenya’s national security and immigration management. Secondly to examine how Kenya’s immigration management contributes to the enhancement of national security. Finally, to assess whether Kenya’s immigration officers correlate national security issues and immigration policies and practices. The study research critically discussed relevant literature and also conducted personal interviews with immigration practitioners and security scholars. The study came out with the following findings. Firstly, there indeed exist a symbiotic relationship between immigration and National Security. Secondly, Kenya Immigration Department plays a crucial role in ensuring that the country is not infiltrated by individuals who might want to harm its interests. Thirdly, Kenya’s Immigration officers view their function as imperative in the safeguarding of National Security. Based on these findings, the study made pertinent recommendations to the academic researchers as well as to policy formulators and implementers.