In a significant move to enhance regional security, Ethiopia and Kenya have formalized an agreement aimed at combating cross-border crime and addressing security threats along their shared border. This collaboration comes in response to the presence of various terrorist groups in the border region, prompting both countries to take decisive action to safeguard their citizens.
The initiative was solidified during a diplomatic meeting held in Nairobi in March 2023, where a delegation of Ethiopian government officials, led by the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Birtukan Ayano, engaged in discussions with high-ranking Kenyan officials. The talks focused on strategies for enhancing cooperation in the security sector.
During that time Ethiopian Ambassador to Kenya, Bacha Debele, took to social media to highlight the importance of these discussions. He noted that, the two nations explored various avenues for collaboration, emphasizing the need for a united front in tackling the challenges posed by cross-border criminal activities.
The agreement marks a crucial step in fostering a safer environment for communities living in the border areas. By pooling resources and sharing intelligence, Ethiopia and Kenya aim to not only deter criminal activities but also to enhance their overall security frameworks.
In recent years, the border region has experienced an increase in incidents related to terrorism and organized crime, leading to growing concerns among local populations. The agreement is expected to facilitate joint operations and improve coordination between security forces from both countries, allowing them to respond more effectively to threats.
At the time, officials from both governments expressed optimism about the collaboration, highlighting that a secure border is vital for trade, economic development, and the well-being of the people living in these regions. This partnership is also seen as a model for other nations facing similar challenges, illustrating the importance of regional cooperation in addressing security issues.
As Ethiopia and Kenya move forward with this agreement, the focus will remain on developing practical strategies to implement their plans effectively. Community engagement will also play a crucial role in the success of these initiatives, ensuring that local voices are heard and that the measures taken are in line with the needs of the affected populations.
A year after signing a pivotal agreement, a Kenyan delegation led by intelligence chief Gen. Nuredin Mohammed Haji arrived in Addis Ababa on August 21 for discussions with Redwan Hussien, the head of Ethiopia’s National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS).
The primary objective of Gen. Haji’s visit was to review the agreement and chart future directions for collaboration, according to local media reports. The two countries’ intelligence agencies are now poised to conduct joint operations targeting leaders and militants of terrorist groups operating along their shared border and within Kenya.
A press release from NISS confirmed that the institutions had previously established a memorandum of understanding to facilitate information exchange and address security concerns.
Regular meetings between officials and experts from both countries have been taking place to assess ongoing progress, as highlighted in the press release. During their discussions, both sides recognized shared security challenges and development priorities, particularly concerning the Shene terrorist group, which has been responsible for kidnappings, looting, and property destruction across both nations. This group poses a significant threat, disrupting the movement of people and creating instability in border regions.
In response, the intelligence agencies agreed to bolster information exchange and coordination efforts to combat the Shene group’s activities. They also outlined plans to take immediate action against illegal mining, smuggling, contraband trade, and arms trafficking linked to the group.
The Shene terrorist group has recently been implicated in the kidnapping of two foreigners, who were subsequently handed over to Al-Shabaab, indicating a direct connection between the two terrorist groups. In light of this, both agencies committed to collaborative efforts aimed at mitigating terrorism threats in the region.
In addition to addressing terrorism, the two institutions pledged to work together to promote peace and stability in the region, including efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Sudan and for lasting peace in South Sudan. They emphasized the importance of collaboration in cyber security, recognizing it as a growing threat, and agreed to jointly prevent potential cyber-attacks.
Overall, the discussions reflect a strong commitment from both nations to ensure lasting peace and security in the region, reinforcing their strategic partnership in the face of shared challenges.
The geopolitical landscape of Eastern Africa, particularly the Horn of Africa, is marked by significant challenges, including the presence of various terrorist organizations. In this context, the two counties agreement to collaborate on tackling illegal activities and enhancing security is a critical development that could provide much-needed relief to the region.
Ethiopia and Kenya share a border with Somalia, a country that has long been considered a hub for the militant group Al-Shabaab, which has established connections with the global terrorist group Al-Qaeda. The presence of these groups poses a persistent threat not only to the immediate countries involved but also to the broader stability of the region.
The agreement between Addis Ababa and Nairobi signifies a commitment to joint efforts in combating terrorism and illegal activities that undermine security. By working together, both nations can coordinate their responses to the threats posed by Al-Shabaab and other extremist factions, which have been known to launch sudden attacks across borders.
This partnership is particularly vital given the complex dynamics of the Horn of Africa, where various armed groups exploit political instability and economic challenges. By sharing intelligence and resources, Ethiopia and Kenya can better anticipate and respond to potential threats, ultimately enhancing the safety and security of their citizens.
The implications of this agreement extend beyond mere security measures. A united front against terrorism can foster greater regional cooperation, promote peace, and encourage stability in an area that has long been plagued by conflict. As Ethiopia and Kenya take these important steps, there is hope that other nations in the region will follow suit, creating a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 29 AUGUST 2024
