Wayne Lumbasi
Kenya has announced it will reopen its land border with Somalia in April 2026, ending a 15-year closure imposed over security concerns linked to militant activity along the frontier.
President William Ruto made the announcement during a visit to Mandera County, stating that the government will restore operations at key crossing points under strict security supervision. He said the reopening will be accompanied by enhanced deployment of police and border security units to guard against infiltration and cross-border crime.
The border between Kenya and Somalia was sealed in October 2011 following a surge in attacks blamed on the Somalia-based extremist group al-Shabaab. The group, which is affiliated with al Qaeda, has waged a prolonged insurgency in Somalia and carried out deadly attacks inside Kenya, including bombings, kidnappings and ambushes targeting civilians and security forces.
Kenyan authorities said the porous border had become a conduit for militant infiltration, weapons smuggling and recruitment networks. In response, Kenya launched Operation Linda Nchi in 2011, deploying troops into southern Somalia to pursue the militants. Kenyan forces were later integrated into the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia. Despite sustained military operations, sporadic cross-border attacks and attempted incursions continued over the years, prompting authorities to maintain tight restrictions along the frontier.
The prolonged closure disrupted trade and movement between Kenya and Somalia, particularly affecting communities in northeastern Kenya that rely heavily on cross-border commerce. Miraa exports, livestock trade and small-scale businesses suffered losses as transport shifted to more expensive air routes and informal crossings.
Under the new plan, the reopening will be phased and closely monitored. Key crossing points including Mandera, Liboi and Kiunga are expected to resume operations with reinforced surveillance systems, expanded intelligence coordination and increased security patrols.
The decision is also seen as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation between Kenya and Somalia after years of strained relations. While local leaders have welcomed the move as a long-awaited economic boost, the Kenyan government maintains that security will remain the central priority as cross-border activity resumes.
RELATED:
