Kenya Somalia Border Reopening: Ruto Announces April 2026 Plan

Kenya will reopen its border with Somalia in April, nearly 15 years after it closed due to repeated attacks by the Islamist militant group al-Shabab, President William Ruto announced. The Kenya Somalia border reopening aims to reconnect families, revive cross-border trade, and ensure security.

Background of the Border Closure

Kenya shut the border in October 2011 after a series of al-Shabab attacks. These included the Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi in 2013, which killed 67 people, and the Garissa University attack in 2015, which claimed 148 lives. Kenya also wanted to stop smuggling of weapons and contraband.

Kenyan forces joined the African Union mission in Somalia to contain the militants. A 680km border fence project began in 2015 but halted after building only 10km.

Security Measures for Reopening

President Ruto said security forces will heavily patrol the border during the reopening. Speaking in Mandera, he said:

“It is unacceptable that Kenyans in Mandera remain cut off from their kin and neighbours in Somalia due to the prolonged closure.”

He called on residents to actively support efforts against al-Shabab and help secure the region.

Regional Context

The Mogadishu-based Hiraal Institute reports that al-Shabab regained much of its lost territory in central Somalia. Mohamed Mubarak from Hiraal said the Somali government lacks a long-term strategy to reclaim its sovereignty fully.

Benefits of the Border Reopening

The reopening will boost cross-border trade and reconnect communities separated by the closure. Traders and families in Mandera, many of whom have relatives in Somalia, have welcomed the decision.