State fortifies border security with launch of new initiative

Government’s commitment to border security evident in new training programme

The border security programme launched recently seeks to better the management of the entry and exit points to strengthen the country’s national security.

The Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said the Border Management Programme would ensure the security and efficiency of all ports of entry and exit.

The programme encompasses critical dimensions of border management, including governance structures for cooperation and emerging trends and technologies.

“It is crucial to ensure that all border officers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the complexities of border operations,” said PS Omollo.

The border management system coordinates domestic agencies in the country “as well as international coordination involving collaboration between neighbouring countries and trading partners to enhance security and promote economic and social cohesion”.

The PS said Kenya, through the programme, would have a more coordinated and efficient approach in tackling organised crime and other threats that undermine peace, security and sustainable development.

He underscored the link between security and development, and advocated for investments in administrative officers and local governance structures to bolster security at grassroots.

“Due to the intrinsic link between security and development, we seek support for the investment in our National Government Administrative Officers, who are pivotal in coordinating government policies and programmes at the grassroot level,” said the PS.

The Interior ministry has already laid the groundwork by reviewing the National Government Coordination Act, the Chiefs Act and the peacebuilding architecture to improve government service delivery.

According to Mr Omollo, another critical aspect of border security is the collaboration with development partners. Through strategic alliances with entities such as the European Union, the International Organisation for Migration and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Kenya has garnered support for training, technological advancements and infrastructure modernisation at border points. Development partners such as the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme have played pivotal roles in fortifying Kenya’s resilience on border security.

The significance of international collaboration for enhanced security in the country was underscored by United Nations Resident Coordinator, Dr Stephen Jackson, who said there is interconnectedness between border security, peace and sustainable development, advocating for a comprehensive approach to addressing global challenges.

Kenya’s strategic location in East Africa underscores the importance of effective border management in enhancing trade, national security and promoting regional integration.

The country in January implemented a visa-free policy that allows anyone from across the world to get in after only applying for electronic authorisation. To stem threats of terrorism as well as organised crimes like human trafficking and money laundering, Kenya has over the years modernised its border operations.

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