Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania strengthen border security cooperation

By Robert Mutasi 

In what is perhaps one of the biggest steps towards regional security and cooperation, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have since then sealed efforts through the establishment of a Regional Working Group, RWG.

This development, announced by Kenya's Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, forms part of multi-agency efforts towards addressing transnational organized crime and securing borders among East African neighbors.

The RWG unites together officers from the key border agencies across the three nations and is instrumental in increasing cross-border security coordination and intelligence sharing.

The threats it aims to combat include a variety of crimes; a long line of human trafficking, smuggling, and drug trafficking has traditionally plagued this region.

The RWG also works to further improve regional trade and safe migration through a collaborative environment between the three nations.

Most significantly, the formation of the group builds on previous initiatives, such as the Joint Operations Centres launched at key border posts, including Kenya's Lunga Lunga border with Tanzania.

These centers play a crucial role in streamlining security, controlling migration, and facilitating trade between the two countries through information sharing and joint operations.

These centres are part of Kenya's broader plan, supported by international organizations such as the International Organization for Migration, of ensuring tight borders while at the same time allowing for legal trade and mobility across borders.

The announcement of this move follows high-level engagements and consultations.

For instance, in May 2024, officials in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania held a meeting in Mwanza, Tanzania, over ways regional maritime security on Lake Victoria could be bolstered.

The meeting, with the support of the United States Department of State, discussed transnational threats within the region and formed one of those really important moments along the journey toward the realization of comprehensive regional security.

Going forward, the group is expected to be engaged in a number of activities related to the capacity building of border officers, as well as strengthening communication and coordination mechanisms, toward ensuring security and economic growth across the region.