Kenya's decision to build a security wall along the Somalia border was launched in 2015 to prevent Al-Shabaab attacks, but the project has stalled after spending Sh3.4 billion on just 10 kilometers. Recently, President William Ruto announced the official reopening of the border in April following security assessments. However, experts warn that Al-Shabaab continues to strengthen.
The plan to build a security wall along the Somalia border was launched in 2015 to prevent Al-Shabaab militants from carrying out attacks in the North Eastern region, Coast, and Nairobi. The project was estimated to cost Sh8 billion and involved constructing a permanent barrier over a 700-kilometer stretch from Mandera to the Indian Ocean. Implementation was placed under the Ministry of Defence rather than the Ministry of Interior Security.
However, the initial plan shifted from a major wall to a barbed wire fence, raising questions. By 2019, the National Assembly reported that only 10 kilometers had been built at a cost of Sh3.4 billion, which would require over Sh200 billion to complete. The project was divided into three sectors: north (Mandera to Elwak), middle (Elwak to Libat), and south (Libat to Kiunga), featuring security posts, surveillance cameras, and barriers against illegal migration.
Today, there is free movement between Mandera and Bula Hawa in Somalia, with informal routes thriving. Lawmakers opposed further funding in 2019 and demanded government accountability. The project faced funding challenges, payments to National Youth Service workers, and diplomatic tensions.
Last week, President William Ruto announced in Mandera that the border would reopen officially in April after thorough security assessments and pledged to enhance protection. The Hiraal Institute warns that Al-Shabaab continues to strengthen, leaving the question of whether reopening will bring economic benefits without risking national security.
