Kenya to Reopen Border with Somalia After 15-Year Closure, Focused on Security and Trade Enhancement

Kenya's President William Ruto has announced that the country's border with Somalia will reopen in April, marking nearly 15 years since its closure due to threats from the Islamist militant organization, al-Shabab.

The border was initially shut down following a series of grave attacks carried out by the militant group, including the infamous 2013 Westgate shopping mall incident in Nairobi that resulted in 67 fatalities, and the 2015 assault on Garissa University, which claimed 148 lives. Additionally, the closure followed major violent events such as the 2014 Mandera bus killings and the 2019 hotel attack in Nairobi.

During his visit to Mandera town, which is located near the border, Ruto stated that the reopening comes after thorough security evaluations. He assured the public that security personnel would be significantly deployed to safeguard the area and curb the smuggling of weapons and other illegal goods.

Ruto expressed his concern over residents in Mandera lacking access to their relatives and friends in Somalia due to the prolonged closure of the Mandera Border Post. He emphasized on social media that reopening the border checkpoints would facilitate cross-border trade, thereby fostering "mutual prosperity" for those living on both sides.

The president further called on the local population to assist in the campaign against al-Shabab, stating, "These al-Shabab are useless. I want to assure that Kenya will work together with you; just help us combat these criminals and terrorists."

Previously, Kenya attempted to secure its extensive 680km (423-mile) border with a perimeter fence in 2015, but the project, costing $35 million, was halted after only 10km (6 miles) of fencing was completed. The upcoming reopening represents a crucial movement towards reestablishing connectivity while remaining alert to ongoing militant threats.