The government makes recommendations on transnational organized crime on Lake Victoria

The Ministry of Home Affairs is pushing for the establishment of a Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Center for Lake Victoria to curb transnational organized crime and border management.

Speaking at a workshop on countering transnational threats on Lake Victoria by improving border security capabilities and coordination among authorities in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, Home Affairs Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo commended the cooperation between the three countries.

“The establishment of the regional working group, comprising officials from key border agencies in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, has played a critical role in advancing our regional security and cooperation,” he said.

Omollo said the center will be a crucial hub for coordinating information sharing and rescue operations.

“In Kisumu, we have started crucial discussions on border management institutions and regulatory frameworks. In Entebbe, we validated assessment reports and made the strategic decision to invite the East African Community to join our efforts.

Most recently in Mwanza we have focused on building the capabilities of our border authorities through the provision of equipment and comprehensive training programs,” Omollo added.

The other recommendations aimed at streamlining the fisheries sector include harmonizing fishing regulations and law enforcement frameworks in the three countries, expanding joint training programs for frontline officials and publicizing more ports of entry and fish landing points.