Extremists have taken advantage of religion to lure community members into violence in the Coast region. They have succeeded to some extent due to the use of religious texts as justification for their violent actions. Marginalization in the area has compounded the issue. Women have been particularly affected by violent extremism, which has caused them to suffer trauma, stigma, and harassment. They are unable to refute the scriptures used to justify violence as they lack religious knowledge. The Coast Interfaith Council of Clerics (CICC) Trust recognized the need to address this issue and bring religious leaders on board to help demystify the narratives used by extremists.

The CICC Trust worked with religious leaders to provide advanced religious knowledge to women affected by violent extremism. The religious leaders had two sessions per month where the women shared the narratives they had heard, and the leaders explained the context and application of the scriptures. The women appreciated the patience and detailed explanations of the religious leaders, which helped them to gain knowledge and protect their families from being lured into violent extremism. They were grateful to see Christian and Muslim religious leaders working together to assist them. The focus was on understanding that life is a challenge for everyone and the need to live with brotherliness and accept diversity within society.

In summary, extremist groups have exploited religion to justify violence in the Coast region. Women have been particularly affected, suffering from trauma, stigma, and harassment. The CICC Trust recognized the need to address this issue and brought religious leaders on board to provide advanced religious knowledge to women affected by violent extremism. The women appreciated the religious leaders' explanations and gained knowledge to protect their families from being lured into violent extremism. The focus was on understanding that life is a challenge for everyone and the need to live with brotherliness and accept diversity within society.