The government has reopened the Kenya-Somalia border to facilitate the transport of miraa, a move expected to revive the livelihoods of farmers and traders affected by previous closures.
The announcement came from the Ministry of Interior, following ratification by the National Security Council Committee. Border points at Mandera, Liboi, and Kiunga have been designated for miraa export to Somalia.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed the development, noting it followed a formal request by the Nyambene Miraa Trade Association. “The National Security Council Committee ratified the reopening specifically for the transportation of miraa by road to Somalia,” the statement read.
The move follows recent diplomatic engagements between Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma and the Somali Ambassador to Kenya, aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, cross-border cooperation, and agricultural ties.
Governor Mutuma hailed the reopening as a major win for farmers and traders in Meru and other miraa-growing regions. “This decision brings back a key market, stabilises farm prices, and protects jobs across the sector,” he said.
The reopening comes as a relief to farmers who had faced heavy losses and reduced income due to the prolonged border closure. Authorities now urge traders to comply with border regulations to ensure smooth and safe transport.
Local agricultural experts say the move could also strengthen economic ties between Kenya and Somalia while promoting sustainable cross-border trade.
