Kenya ranked among Africa’s most dangerous countries in 2025

By Newsflash Team

Kenya has been ranked the most insecure country in East Africa and seventh overall on the continent, according to the newly released Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025. The report shows that Kenya’s peace levels have dropped sharply over the past year, placing it in the same category as nations struggling with civil wars and insurgencies.

The decline comes against the backdrop of anti-government protests that erupted in June 2024. The demonstrations, which spread across major towns, were met with heavy crackdowns, leading to widespread kidnappings and killings. Dozens of Kenyans have since been reported missing, while several bodies have been discovered in shallow graves, raising alarm over enforced disappearances.

Factors Behind Kenya’s Decline

The index points to a mix of political unrest, terrorism, armed banditry, and rising urban crime as the main causes of Kenya’s worsening insecurity. Security forces continue to clash with al-Shabaab militants in the northeastern and coastal regions, where deadly ambushes and roadside bombings remain common.

In the northern counties of Turkana, Baringo, and West Pokot, bandit attacks have displaced hundreds of families and left dozens dead this year alone. In Nairobi and Mombasa, rising cases of robberies, carjackings, and gang violence have deepened public concerns about safety.

The report also cites political instability and economic hardship as factors fueling unrest. The government has struggled to contain growing discontent over the rising cost of living, while frequent accusations of human rights abuses by security agencies have further eroded public trust.

Global Context and Regional Comparisons

The GPI shows that sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the most unstable regions in the world. Three of the ten most dangerous countries globally are located in the region. The Democratic Republic of Congo is ranked the least peaceful country in Africa, driven by ongoing clashes between government forces and the M23 rebel group.

Sudan has also seen its security situation deteriorate, with clashes between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces displacing millions and killing thousands since April 2023. Mali and Burkina Faso remain engulfed in jihadist insurgencies that have left large parts of their territories under militant control. Somalia continues to battle al-Shabaab, which staged a major bombing in Mogadishu earlier this month that left 37 people dead and more than 200 injured.

Kenya’s Position Raises Concern

Kenya’s ranking at number seven highlights the country’s growing fragility despite being considered one of East Africa’s strongest economies. The report notes that Kenya now leads the region in insecurity, ahead of Uganda, which was ranked 23rd in Africa, and Tanzania, which is listed as one of the safer countries on the continent at position 73 globally.

The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of Kenya’s security strategy at a time when the country faces political divisions and mounting pressure from the public. Human rights groups have urged the government to investigate cases of abductions and extrajudicial killings reported since last year’s protests, while opposition leaders continue to accuse security agencies of targeting civilians.

Rising Cost of Instability

Experts warn that Kenya’s slide in the peace index could have serious consequences for its economy and international reputation. The country is a regional hub for trade, investment, and tourism, but rising insecurity could deter investors and slow down recovery efforts in key sectors.

The report also notes that growing insecurity has worsened the humanitarian situation, with more than 122 million people across Africa displaced by conflict. Kenya’s own displacement crisis, particularly in the north, is expected to worsen if violence continues.

What Lies Ahead

The GPI concludes that peace levels across the world have continued to decline for the past decade, with Africa experiencing some of the steepest falls. It urges governments, including Kenya’s, to prioritize dialogue, strengthen institutions, and address social grievances that fuel unrest.

For Kenya, the latest ranking serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. Unless decisive steps are taken to restore trust, protect human rights, and strengthen security without abuse, the country risks sliding further into instability.