Kenya-Uganda Border Cooperation Boosted at Konyao Meeting

A renewed focus on cross-border trade and development took center stage at a crucial meeting held in Konyao, Kapchok Ward, bringing together key officials from Kenya led by Ambassador H.E. Joash Maangi, MBS to chart the future of border communities.
The Ambassador underscored a shift in Kenya’s diplomatic strategy, highlighting the importance of commercial interests.
“While security remains vital, the heart of our efforts is now commerce,” Maangi said. “By promoting and protecting Kenya’s trade, we aim to open up market economies that will create employment for people in every corner of Kenya.”
He stressed the need to operationalize one-stop border posts to facilitate the seamless movement of goods, services, and people, particularly along the Kenya-Uganda border.
Deputy Governor Robert Komolle echoed the ambassador’s vision, pointing to Uganda’s progress in establishing border infrastructure.
“Uganda has made tremendous strides in setting up border posts. We must work together to develop transhumance routes and a one-stop border point that will foster greater commerce between our neighboring communities,” noted the Deputy Governor.
H.E. Komolle emphasized that such initiatives would offer pastoralists alternative livelihoods and stimulate economic growth in the region.
MCA John Bosco Giratum of Alale Ward expressed hope for the economic revival of Pokot North, a region long considered underdeveloped. “These measures will be a game-changer for our people,” Giratum said. “They will pave the way for improved infrastructure and new opportunities that have eluded us for far too long.”
County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi, along with the county security team and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) liaison officer Major Kanyi, affirmed their commitment to ensuring security as the border infrastructure is enhanced.
The meeting follows a leaders meeting in Nairobi that brought together leaders from Uganda and Kenya to discuss peace and cooperation in the border regions.