Kenya cites security concerns, militant threats in maintaining Somalia border closure

Kenyan President William Ruto has said the border between Kenya and Somalia will remain closed for the time being, citing ongoing security concerns, political uncertainties in Somalia, and funding challenges affecting border security operations.

Speaking on the issue, Ruto said the decision was informed by the current security situation in the region and the need to ensure that adequate measures are in place before cross-border movement can resume safely.

According to the Kenyan president, Somalia’s political environment remains fragile, while financial constraints have complicated efforts to maintain the level of security required for effective border management.

The Kenya-Somalia border has faced periodic closures and movement restrictions in recent years due to concerns over militant activities, cross-border attacks, and broader security threats affecting communities on both sides of the frontier.