Kenya and Somalia have resolved to open the border in phases within the next 90 days.
Making the announcement Monday, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki who signed a joint agreement on cross-border cooperation with visiting Internal Security Minister for the Federal Government of Somalia Mohammed Ali said the Mandera/Belet Hawo will be the first to be opened in the next 30 days.
The second border point, which is the Liboi-Harahar-Dobley on the Somalia side, will be opened 60 days from now while Kiunga-Ras Kamboni border point in Lamu will be opened in at least 90 days.
He added that the government is exploring the possibility of adding a fourth border point into Somalia from the Kenyan side in Wajir County.
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 borders 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 partnerships 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.
He 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 the 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 enhancing the cross-border activities and business.