On February 12, 2026, Kenyan President William Ruto declared that the long-closed land border between Kenya and Somalia will soon reopen. This border has been shut for nearly 15 years, primarily due to security concerns stemming from attacks carried out by the Somali militant group al-Shabaab, including the notorious Westgate mall massacre in Nairobi and the Garissa university attack, which together resulted in numerous fatalities.

The reopening of the border is slated for April, following a visit by President Ruto to the northeastern counties of Mandera and Wajir, which are located adjacent to Somalia. During his visit, Ruto highlighted the significance of this decision, emphasizing the need to secure peace and enhance trade and movement between the two nations. The announcement marks a pivotal shift in the bilateral relations that have been strained by security issues over the years.

The implications of this reopening could ripple across various sectors, including commerce and security cooperation. With enhanced movement across the border, there is hope for boosting economic interactions, which could benefit local communities. However, it also raises concerns about the potential for increased terrorist incidents, necessitating robust security measures to ensure the safety of citizens in both countries as they navigate this new phase of border relations.