Kenya has taken a significant step in strengthening its border security operations following the flagging off of vehicles donated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The handover ceremony took place on Wednesday morning, presided over by the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo.
The newly acquired Land Cruiser vehicles are expected to enhance patrol efficiency and response times, bolstering the country’s efforts to safeguard its borders against emerging security threats. Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Omollo emphasized the importance of the donation in enhancing coordination, mobility, surveillance, and rapid response capabilities along the country’s borders.
“This marks a significant boost to our border security operations. The vehicles will improve the capacity of our officers in patrolling and responding to security threats more effectively,” said Dr. Omollo.
As the Chairman of the Border Control and Operations Coordinating Committee (BCOCC), Dr. Omollo acknowledged the partnership between the Border Management Secretariat (BMS) and IOM, which has been instrumental in strengthening Kenya’s border security and governance. He highlighted that the collaboration had led to the training of 395 frontline border officers in partnership with the Kenya School of Government, as well as the successful hosting of the first-ever National Border Management Conference.
The donation underscores the ongoing commitment by IOM to support Kenya’s border management capacity. IOM Chief of Mission Sharon Dimanche, who attended the ceremony, reiterated the organization’s dedication to enhancing Kenya’s border security infrastructure.
“These vehicles will significantly contribute to improving border patrol and ensuring the safety of both border communities and the country at large,” said Dimanche.
The flagged-off vehicles will be deployed along key border points, including the Nairobi-Nadapal route in Turkana County, a region that has experienced security challenges due to its proximity to conflict-prone areas.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to improve security and stability in Kenya’s border regions, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening national security through strategic partnerships and resource mobilization.