Mashariki Research and Policy Centre

Donate

Conflict Vulnerability Index – Kenya
(CVI-Kenya)
From hotspots to early warning ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Elections The Conflict Vulnerability Index–Kenya is a foresight-driven analytical tool designed to anticipate, monitor, and assess conflict risks associated with electoral cycles. By transforming historical patterns and real-time indicators into predictive intelligence, CVI-Kenya supports early action, preparedness, and evidence-based decision-making.
Explore the Index

THE PROBLEM WE ADDRESS

Why Kenya Needs a Conflict Vulnerability Index

Elections in Kenya have historically been accompanied by heightened political tensions, episodic violence, and institutional strain. While past interventions have relied heavily on historical hotspot mapping and reactive responses, emerging risks require anticipatory and predictive approaches.

CVI-Kenya responds to this gap by shifting focus from where violence has occurred before to where and why it is likely to occur next, enabling earlier and more targeted prevention efforts.

WHAT MAKES CVI-KENYA DIFFERENT

From Description to Prediction

CVI-Kenya is not a static conflict map. It is a dynamic, multi-dimensional index that integrates diverse indicators to assess vulnerability over time.

CVI-Kenya enables:

  • Predictive assessment rather than retrospective analysis
  • County-level risk profiling rather than broad national generalisations
  • Continuous monitoring rather than one-off studies
  • Actionable intelligence rather than descriptive reporting

WHAT THE INDEX DELIVERS

Core Capabilities

CVI-Kenya provides institutions with a structured, evidence-based view of conflict risk through:

Predictive Risk Scoring

County-level assessments identifying varying degrees of vulnerability.

Early Warning Signals

Detection of emerging stressors before escalation.

Scenario Analysis

Forward-looking modelling of potential conflict trajectories.

Geospatial Risk Visualisation

Clear mapping of vulnerability patterns across the country.

Decision-Support Insights

Analysis tailored for strategic planning and preventive action.

INDICATORS AND INTELLIGENCE FRAMEWORK

A Multi-Dimensional Risk Lens

CVI-Kenya integrates multiple categories of indicators to capture the complexity of electoral conflict dynamics, including:

  • Political and institutional factors
  • Socio-economic pressures
  • Information and media dynamics
  • Environmental and resource stress
  • Historical patterns of violence and mobilisation

This layered approach ensures a balanced and context-sensitive understanding of risk.

WHO BENEFITS FROM CVI-KENYA

Designed for Institutions Responsible for Prevention

CVI-Kenya is developed to support institutions and actors engaged in conflict prevention, electoral preparedness, and policy planning, including:

  • Government institutions and independent commissions
  • County governments and local authorities
  • Diplomatic missions and multilateral organisations
  • Security agencies
  • Peacebuilding and governance partners
  • Research and policy institutions

The Index is a decision-support tool, not an advocacy instrument.

INSTITUTIONAL ANCHOR

Anchored in Security Foresight

CVI-Kenya is developed by Mashariki Research and Policy Centre (MRPC) as part of its Conflict and Geopolitics programme.

MRPC applies forecasting, trend analysis, simulations, and scenario development to anticipate security risks and opportunities in Greater Eastern Africa’s evolving geopolitical landscape. CVI-Kenya reflects this foresight-driven approach, translating analytical depth into practical utility.

PARTNERSHIPS AND ENGAGEMENT

A Collaborative National Resource

CVI-Kenya is designed as a collaborative platform that complements existing institutional mandates and prevention frameworks. MRPC works with partners to ensure the Index supports coordinated, evidence-based responses to emerging risks.

Engagement opportunities include:

  • Strategic partnerships
  • Technical collaboration
  • Policy briefings and advisory support