Kenya’s long-closed border with Somalia is set to reopen in April, ending a 15-year shutdown that followed repeated attacks by militant group al‑Shabab.

The decision was announced by President William Ruto, who said two border crossings will resume operations after what he described as extensive security assessments. A significant military presence will be deployed in the area to guard against future threats.

The border, which stretches across remote and often difficult terrain, has been largely sealed since a wave of al-Shabab attacks prompted Kenyan authorities to prioritise national security over cross-border movement.

Ruto said the reopening is aimed at restoring vital economic and social ties between communities on both sides of the frontier, particularly to boost cross-border trade.

Addressing residents in Mandera, the Ruto urged local communities to work closely with security forces in efforts to counter al-Shabab activities and maintain stability in the region.

Concerns over smuggling and illegal crossings also factored into the government’s decision, with officials indicating that tighter monitoring systems will be in place once the crossings reopen.

Kenya had previously launched a perimeter barrier project along sections of the border to curb infiltration, but the project stalled after limited progress.

–ChannelAfrica/Reuters–