EAC states are strengthening border security to tackle transnational threats

Speaking at the fourth meeting of the Regional Working Group in Mombasa, the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, who is also Chairman of the Border Control and Operations Coordinating Committee (BCOCC), said the three-day conference aims to to underline the need to protect Lake Victoria as an environmental priority and because of its significant impact on the socio-economic life of communities that depend on it.

“The focus of our meeting, which supports the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is to look at how we can address the gaps and concerns that exist within the Lake in the area of ​​transnational organized crime,” Omollo said.

He added that they will explore how to better coordinate, build capacity, create a common understanding within the communities around the lake, and also how the communities can benefit from the use of the lake, while trying to reduce crime minimize and ultimately eradicate. which is a common challenge on the lake.

The PS said that tackling crime is a top priority, stressing that the relevant agencies will have to maintain strong cooperation and work with law enforcement officials to rise to the challenge and address any shortfalls that have occurred over the past three years since its inception of the program have increased.

He emphasized that the establishment of the Regional Working Group program of key border agencies from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania represented at the conference has played a crucial role in promoting regional security and cooperation of the three countries.

“Your dedication has ensured that our initiatives remain aligned with both national and regional priorities. The teams will take stock of some of the developments that have taken place over the three years of the program, look at how we can continue the positive learnings and will have the opportunity to visit parts of Mombasa County,” he said. .

He added that they expect a lot of positive input and results and added that they look forward to documenting the agreed points as takeaways from the meeting.

Omollo noted that Kenya is committed to expanding its blue economy, recognizing the lake’s potential to boost both local and regional economies.

The Directorate of Immigration Services and Head of the Kenyan Delegation, Evelyn Cheluget, noted that it is important to focus on the mission to strengthen the capabilities of the border authorities in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania so that they can tackle transnational crimes in the Lake detect and deter. Subregion Victoria.

“This project underlines our countries’ shared commitment to maintaining security in our region. Since the inception of this program in November 2022, we have made significant progress in achieving the desired outcomes,” she said.

She emphasized that through effective coordination between the three countries, they have been able to enhance information exchange, conduct joint patrols and address issues related to transnational organized crime and trade facilitation at Lake Victoria ports.

Cheluget reiterated that the formation of the working group played an important role in guiding the implementation of the project, ensuring alignment with national and regional priorities.

Uganda was represented by the Deputy Commissioner for Immigration Control and Head of the Ugandan Delegation, Marcellino Bwesigye, while Tanzania was represented by the Head of Training, Advocacy and International Cooperation and Head of the Delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ahmad Mwendadi.

By Fatma Said