Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki together with Internal Security Minister for the Federal Government of Somalia Mohammed Ali today signed a joint agreement on cross-border cooperation between the governments of Kenya and Somalia at Harambee House.
The two horn of Africa governments agreed on cooperation in fighting terrorism, have security along their borders and liaise to fight crimes in the two countries.
Prof Kindiki stated that there is need to encourage cross-border businesses, approach cross border challenges and coordination and enhance cross-border infrastructure and management.
“We recognise the efforts of our partners in ensuring peace is restored,” said Kindiki as he addressed the press at Harambee House.
He added that the Government of Kenya is committed to developing partnership to ensure security is achieved.
“After today, the two governments will undertake international relationships to meet with the joint partners and committees from various organisations,” said Kindiki.
He disclosed that immigration arrangements have been put in place in order to make it easier for citizens to interact freely.
CS Kindiki added that there is need to strengthen cross-border communication between the two countries in order to develop modalities of how to address threats, develop and pursue cooperation and lastly need to establish border management strategies.
Speaking at the event, Prof Kindiki said that the two countries will employ joint strategies to enhance cross border activities.
“We have agreed to open the borders between Kenya and Somalia that is the Mandera, Liboi and Kiunga in Lamu side with a possibility of adding a fourth border point in Wajir County which is being discussed,” said Kindiki.
Internal Security Minister for the Federal Government of Somalia Mohammed Ali thanked the government for hosting them for the fruitful talks.
“As the Somali government we have given our commitment to collaborate and partner with our Kenyan counterparts to ensure security along the borders of the two countries,” said Ali.
The two countries committed to enhance the cross-border activities and business.
By Peace Muthoka and Enrica Amisi
