In light of the shifting security environment in the Horn of Africa region and the entire continent, the government wants communities residing in border regions to collaborate closely with security services to strengthen security at the Ports of Entry and Exit (PoE).
According to Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, local communities are essential collaborators in implementing efficient border control.
Omollo commented on Thursday while leading a BCOCC team to a consultative meeting with local Illeret people and Marsabit County officials.
One of the seven new ports of entry and exit authorized as critical locations for cross-border trade and travel is the Banya Fort PoE in the Illeret Ward.
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During an inspection tour in preparation for the development of Banya Fort as a new Point of Entry/Exit between Kenya and Ethiopia, Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo was present.
According to the PS, local communities are well positioned to spot suspicious activity and people within their borders, making cooperation vital to fending security concerns.
"It is through sharing of intelligence and related information, that we can sieve the passage of criminals that are a threat to our collective growth and the tremendous gains projected for the locals and the County Government of Marsabit and the entire country," Omollo said.
To open doors to opportunities with its neighbors, Kenya aggressively seeks to facilitate the efficient clearance and legal cross-border movement of persons and goods.
Omollo further stressed the importance of having a reliable entry and exit mechanism.
He pointed out that the vigorous push for borderless travel and commerce led by President William Ruto has made establishing more ports of entry and exit imperative.
"With a secure borderline, we can be sure of the stability of our country and neighborhood which would further create a healthy and enabling environment for national and regional development," he said.
The PS revealed that the country has reaped significant benefits due to the creating of the Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee.
He also emphasized the necessity to address the entry and departure systems from the national security standpoint, acknowledging the security risks associated with opening up borders.
"These shared trade and travel spaces are also common hangouts for criminals," Omollo said. "They provide enabling environments for socio-economic and cultural interaction, promoting regional integration."
DIG KPS Douglas Kanja, KCGS Director General Bruno Shioso, CEO Anti Counterfeit Authority Robi Njoroge, and the local MP Wario Adhe Guyo were all present at the meeting.
