Kenya launches border management program to streamline border operations

Kenya has launched the revised Kenya Coordinated Border Management Program (KCBMP) to bolster its border operations.

Speaking at the Kenya School of Government in Kabete Campus on Monday, Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo noted the program will play a pivotal role in transitioning from a reactive to a proactive approach in managing Kenya's borders.

PS Omollo added that the move reflects the government's commitment to safeguard the nation's borders through modernised operations.

"The launch and rollout of this revised program signifies a vital step towards ensuring the security and efficiency of Kenya's ports of entry and exit," he said.

"These achievements have laid the foundation for the concept of Coordinated Border Management, emphasizing collaboration, information sharing, and a focus on both security and trade facilitation."

He further stated that there are plans underway to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and efficiency in border operations across all points of entry given Kenya's strategic positioning in the East Africa region.

Omollo therefore noted that it is imperative that all border officers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the complexities of border operations as the ninth cohort embarks on training.

"You are the guardians of our borders, the sentinels who ensure the integrity of our nation. May this training be a catalyst for excellence in border management," Omollo told the cohort.

The need to create a more efficient border operations integrated system led to the establishment of the Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) in 2014.

The operations cuts across land, air, and maritime borders.

In conjunction with BCOCC, the Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS) and other technological tools was also created to expedite the clearance of legitimate goods while effectively detecting contraband.