Kenya deploys more immigration officers to border points to curb Mpox spread

Speaking at the graduation of 300 newly recruited immigration officers at the Kenya School of Government in Kabarnet, Baringo County, Immigration Principal Secretary (PS) Prof. Julius Bitok emphasized that the new officers will collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other agencies to ensure thorough screening of visitors for the virus.

The officers will be stationed at key entry points, including land, sea, and air borders, joining a multi-sectorial team comprised of Health, Security, Agriculture, and Kenya Revenue Authority personnel, among others, to safeguard the country's borders.

In addition to bolstering border security, the new recruits underwent a five-week training that included security, intelligence, communication, protocol, and health-related aspects. Some will be deployed to passport issuance, permits, and electronic travel authorization (eTA) services.

Prof. Bitok also addressed the long-standing issue of corruption within the Directorate of Immigration, calling for transparency and warning the recruits against engaging in corrupt activities. 

“The history and the ills that have traditionally been associated with Nyayo House is not something we are proud of. We are having conversations on whether we need to move out to signify a commitment to do things differently,” he said.

He mentioned that the government is considering relocating the Directorate from its current headquarters at Nyayo House as part of its efforts to reform the department.

At the same time, the PS urged applicants to collect more than 90,000 uncollected passports to alleviate congestion in storage spaces.

Director General of Immigration, Evelyn Cheluget, highlighted the critical link between immigration services and national security, noting that officer rotation within different service sections will be essential for building a strong, security-conscious workforce.