Security fears linger as Kenya set to open Somalia border
Deutsche Welle
February 24, 2026
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Kenya is set to reopen its border with Somalia in April, a move driven by hopes of boosting trade and economic ties between the neighboring nations. However, this decision comes amid lingering security concerns, particularly from Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-linked insurgency group based in Somalia. Previous attempts to reopen the border have failed due to similar security fears, including attacks that resulted in civilian casualties. Despite these risks, Somali traders and business leaders are expressing optimism about the potential economic benefits, as reopening the border could facilitate cross-border trade, ease drought-related hardships, and strengthen cultural ties.
The border closure between Kenya and Somalia has been in place since 2011, with intermittent attempts to reopen it over the years. In May 2023, both nations agreed to a phased reopening, but Kenya reversed its decision following an attack that claimed the lives of five civilians and eight police officers near the frontier. Now, with President William Ruto’s announcement to reopen two border crossings in April, there is renewed hope for economic collaboration. Somali traders and business leaders, such as Mohamed Aden Ali, a trader from Beled Hawo, are eager for the borders to open sooner than planned, emphasizing how this move could revitalize trade and support local livelihoods.
Somalia’s integration into regional bodies like the East African Community (EAC) has also been a key driver of this initiative. Somalia joined the EAC passport system earlier in 2024, which aims to boost trade and tourism across the region. The reopening of the border aligns with these efforts to position Kenya as a gateway for connecting Somalia to other EAC member states. Additionally, Somalia is actively promoting itself as a tourist destination,
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/24/2026