OPINION: Kenya must reinforce counterterrorism efforts through deeper regional partnerships

Kenya must renew its commitment to fighting terrorism by strengthening domestic security measures and expanding cooperation with neighbouring countries, particularly Somalia, as the threat posed by extremist groups continues to evolve.

The November 10 attack in Mandera County, allegedly carried out by Al-Shabaab militants, has once again exposed the vulnerability of communities living along Kenya’s border with Somalia.

Eight people travelling to a road construction site, including five workers, two police reservists and a driver, were ambushed. The incident not only endangered lives but also threatened economic activities and infrastructure development in an already vulnerable region.

Kenya has a long history of confronting terrorist violence and understands the far-reaching consequences of extremist attacks. The 2013 Westgate shopping mall attack, which claimed 67 lives, and the 2019 DusitD2 attack, which left 21 people dead, remain among the darkest chapters in the country’s recent security history.

Over the years, Kenya has strengthened its response through security operations, intelligence gathering, improved border surveillance and the prosecution of terrorism-related offences. These efforts demonstrate the country’s determination to protect its citizens. However, the changing dynamics of terrorism demand an approach that goes beyond national borders.

Kenya’s security is closely linked to developments in Somalia. The two countries must therefore work together to prevent extremist groups from exploiting their shared border, political divisions and governance weaknesses. Regular intelligence exchanges, joint security operations, coordinated border patrols and cooperation in criminal investigations are critical to containing the threat.

The recent allegations by South West State Security Minister Osman Isaaq Mohamed concerning possible links between forces loyal to former regional president Abdiaziz Laftagareen and Al-Shabaab further illustrate the complexities surrounding security cooperation between Nairobi and Mogadishu.

Such claims warrant careful examination through credible investigations rather than political exchanges. Equally, any request for arrest or extradition must be supported by evidence and handled through established legal and diplomatic procedures. Respect for due process is essential, particularly when dealing with sensitive matters involving individuals and political institutions across borders.

Kenya must also sustain constructive relations with Somalia’s Federal Government, recognising that mutual trust and respect for sovereignty are important foundations for effective security cooperation. Differences between the two countries should not be allowed to weaken their shared determination to confront terrorism.

Beyond Somalia, Nairobi should continue strengthening security partnerships with Ethiopia, Uganda and other regional neighbours. Terrorist networks operate across jurisdictions, making intelligence coordination and collective action indispensable.

There is also a need to complement security operations with sustained investment in border communities. Better infrastructure, economic opportunities, access to essential services and stronger local institutions can help address vulnerabilities that extremist organisations seek to exploit.

Kenya has demonstrated considerable resolve in confronting terrorism. The next step should be to build on that experience through stronger regional alliances, intelligence-led interventions and consistent diplomatic engagement.

The war against terrorism cannot be won by any one country acting alone. Kenya must remain firm in protecting its territory while working with its neighbours to deny extremist groups operational space, disrupt their support networks and safeguard communities across the region.

The writer is apolitical analyst