Kenya Plans to Reopens Somalia Border.
The Kenyan government has officially announced the reopening of its border with Somalia for cross-border trade, with a specific focus on allowing the road transportation of miraa (khat) to resume. The decision marks a significant relief for farmers and traders in Meru and surrounding regions, ending a prolonged disruption that lasted up to 15 years in some accounts.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed the move in a letter responding to the Nyambene Miraa Trade Association (NYAMITA), which had sought clarity on the border status. Omollo stated that the National Security Council Committee had ratified the reopening of designated border points — Mandera, Liboi, and Kiunga — exclusively for miraa exports by road to Somalia.
The announcement follows recent diplomatic efforts, including a January 13, 2026, meeting between Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma and Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya. The discussions centered on bolstering economic cooperation, agriculture, and trade between the two nations, with both sides describing the talks as productive.
Governor Mutuma hailed the development as a major victory for local communities. “Under my leadership, the reopening of the Kenya-Somalia border for miraa trade is a big win for our farmers and traders, bringing back this key market and boosting livelihoods across Meru,” he said. He emphasized that the restored access would directly support miraa growers in Meru County and other production areas.
The previous closure had inflicted severe economic pain on the miraa sector, forcing traders to rely on expensive air transport, depressing farm-gate prices, and leading to substantial losses and job reductions. With the border now open for road shipments, transporters are preparing to resume operations immediately, offering a more cost-effective route for the perishable crop.
NYAMITA, chaired by Kimathi Munjuri, welcomed the confirmation and noted that the move would help dismantle long-standing challenges, including exploitation by airport-based cartels. Security considerations remain in place, with ongoing assessments by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) at the border points.
Miraa, a high-value stimulant crop grown primarily in the Nyambene Hills of Meru, has long been a cornerstone of the local economy, supporting thousands of farmers, pickers, transporters, and traders. Somalia has historically been one of the largest markets for Kenyan miraa, making the road corridor vital for efficient and profitable exports.
The government's decision is seen as a step toward strengthening bilateral ties and reviving regional trade, though some stakeholders have raised concerns about security along the routes. Authorities have urged all parties involved to adhere to safety protocols as commercial activity ramps up.
As miraa-laden vehicles prepare to cross into Somalia once again, the reopening is expected to inject fresh momentum into the industry, improve earnings for rural households, and reinforce economic links between Kenya and its neighbor.
