The Kenyan government has announced that it will reopen the Kenya-Somalia border in April, marking the end of a closure that has been enforced since 2011 due to security concerns primarily linked to the militant group Al-Shabaab. During an address in Mandera, President William Ruto highlighted the importance of deploying sufficient security resources to ensure that the reopening of the border does not compromise the safety of citizens. This decision is seen as a crucial step to revitalize cross-border trade, which has been significantly hindered over the years due to the prolonged closure.

The border closure has had a considerable impact on trade and commerce in the surrounding regions, particularly affecting traders from both Kenya and Somalia, who have been unable to operate freely. The phased reopening plan was initially proposed in 2023 but was put on hold due to a resurgence of Al-Shabaab activities in the area. In light of ongoing security operations in Somalia, the government had indicated that the border would remain closed throughout 2024 until security conditions could guarantee safety for both communities.

In a notable development, the Kenyan government has partially reopened the border for the export of miraa, a popular stimulant leaf, ahead of the planned full reopening in April. This limited reopening suggests a cautious approach by the authorities, balancing economic benefits against the critical need for security in the region, as they attempt to restore normalcy in trade while addressing the threats posed by militancy.