Leaders Demand Reopening of Kenya-Somalia Border
Local leaders in Kenya’s North Eastern region have issued a strong call to the government to reopen the Kenya-Somalia border at Liboi. They argue the prolonged closure has negatively impacted livelihoods, slowed economic activity and deprived the government of crucial revenue.
The border was initially closed in 2011 due to security concerns linked to the Islamist militant group al-Shabaab. While plans to reopen the crossing were mooted for 2023, these efforts were unfortunately stalled following a renewed wave of attacks.
The leaders emphasized the detrimental effects of the continued closure on traders who have had to resort to informal and unregulated routes for cross-border commerce. They argued that reopening the official crossing would enable the government to collect customs duties, taxes and other levies previously lost through unofficial trade channels.
Garissa governorship aspirant Mohamed Shidiye expressed optimism that reopening the border would stimulate economic activity, particularly in the livestock sector, which he described as the bedrock of the region’s economy. He emphasized the potential for increased trade and utilization of the renowned Garissa livestock market, which attracts traders from both nations.
The ODM chairman in Garissa and Dadaab parliamentary aspirant, Mohamed Ali Sheikh, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of cross-border trade for regional growth and integration between Kenya and Somalia.
The leaders expressed their support for President William Ruto’s administration and its initiatives in North Eastern Kenya, while urging the government to prioritize the reopening of the Liboi border crossing. They believe this step would unlock economic opportunities, bolster government revenue and strengthen the long-standing economic ties between the two neighboring countries.
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