NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 22 — Kenya and Uganda have agreed on cooperation between the two countries to ensure the success of the ongoing disarmament exercise in Kenya’s North Rift.
The new commitment will see Ugandan security agencies upscale surveillance along the border points to bar bandits from escaping the ongoing security operation supported by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The consensus was part of resolutions agreed upon on Monday following a joint high-level security meeting held in Moroto, Uganda.
Kenya’s delegation was led by East Africa Community (EAC) Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano while Uganda was represented by Retired Major General Jim Muhwezi, Minister of Security.
The two countries agreed on the need to work together to prevent owners of illegal firearms from fleeing into Uganda even as security agencies close in on them.
“That the disarmament that is on-going in Kenya will require the cooperation and coordination with the Uganda government in order to curtail herdsmen from crossing over to Uganda with the illegal small arms and light weapons,” read a joint communique circulated on Wednesday.
The ongoing security operation in six bandit-prone counties — Turkana, West Pokot, Samburu, Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo — has taken a multi-agency approach.
To facilitate recovery and handover of stolen livestock, the Kenya and Uganda resolved to deploy adequate security forces on strategic points along the border points, taking into account specific raiding routes and known hide-outs for bandits.
Intelligence sharing
The countries further agreed to come up with ways of sharing timely intelligence information to boost the fight against banditry.
“The security agencies of the two sister countries should consider establishing communication channels and networks to enhance effective communication, coordination on rapid action and conflict early warning and response,” the joint statement read.
The two countries further agreed that the both countries should allocate resources to cater for provision of health, education and water services
“There is urgent need to build and equip health facilities, schools and water points along the border areas to cater for herders in the region,” the statement added.
Kenya and Uganda will also work on the building and improvement of the road network and establishment of immigration and customs boarder points at Lokiriama, Nawountos, Nakitong’o and other strategic places along the borders to enhance cross-border trade.
The two nations will also mobilize resources to fund peace-building initiatives.
