In a significant stride towards fortifying and safeguarding Kenya’s borders, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, on Monday, December 12 led the launch and roll-out of the Border Security and Control Program.
Those in attendance at the Kenya School of Government (KSG) during the launch included key figures such as KSG Director General Prof. Ludeki Chweya, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Sharon Dimanche, Secretary of the Border Management Secretariat, Kennedy Nyaiyo, and Director of the Security Management Institute, Humphrey Mokaya.
Also present were contact persons from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, as well as the Border Management
Secretariat.
In his opening remarks, PS Omollo emphasized the historic significance of the occasion, a groundbreaking initiative reflecting the government’s commitment to securing our national borders.
“The curriculum we are launching today encompasses several critical dimensions of border management. It delves into the intricacies of border security, examining key terms, national interests, and their correlations to our cherished national sovereignty,” said Dr. Omollo.
PS Omollo — who is the Chairperson of the Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) — highlighted the collaborative effort between the Border Management Secretariat and the KSG in developing a curriculum designed to address the dynamic landscape of border security.
The program covers essential aspects, including border security intricacies, migration, border control, and trade facilitation.
Transnational organized crime
PS Omollo drew attention to the increasing threat of transnational organized crime, emphasizing how the curriculum equips officers to combat illicit activities that compromise peace, security, and sustainable development.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of cross-border cooperation in enhancing security and promoting economic and social cohesion.
Importantly, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on life skills,
recognizing communication, negotiation, decision-making, and stress management as essential components of personal development for frontline officers.
The launch of the Border Security and Control Program underscores the Kenyan government’s commitment to:
- Strengthening national security and safeguarding its borders.
- Equipping border officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage complex border issues.
- Fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing with international partners like IOM.
- Promoting efficient and secure movement of people and goods across borders.
“The Curriculum is not just an academic endeavor; it has been designed as a practical, hands-on approach to enhancing the capabilities of our front-line officers working day and night to ensure efficiency in our ports of entry and exit on land, air, and sea,” stated Dr. Omollo.
The curriculum’s development involved a comprehensive Training Needs Assessment conducted by the Kenya School of Government’s Security Management Institute, sponsored by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The study included an extensive examination of border points in Lamu, Nadapal/Nakodok, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Dr. Omollo expressed gratitude to the Border Management Secretariat, the Kenya School of Government, and the International Organization for Migration for their collaborative efforts.
He acknowledged their dedication and hard work, which culminated in a curriculum that will contribute to the safety, security, and prosperity of Kenya.
This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring a safer and more secure Kenya, and it serves as a model for other nations facing similar border security challenges.
