Nairobi: A Multi-agency Team from the two East African countries has been working round the clock to finalise the reaffirmation exercise between the common borders and is expected to be concluded by the end of the year.
According to Kenya News Agency, Deputy Head of the Public Service, Mr. Amos Gathecha, highlighted the significant progress made during a supervisory tour at Lake Jipe, Lake Challa, and the surrounding areas in Taveta. He expressed optimism that the exercise would be completed as projected. The joint undertaking between the two states is conducted in accordance with international legal frameworks governing boundary reaffirmation. Upon completion, it will culminate in the signing of a bilateral agreement early next year between the two Heads of state.
The Deputy Head of Public Service revealed that 558 out of the 758-kilometers to be covered have already been reaffirmed, with a 42-kilometre stretch within the lake section remaining, which does not require land-based demarcation.
Mr. Gathecha commended the dedication of over 80 officers from various Kenyan agencies, including the Ministry of Lands, the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), the Immigration Department, and the Kenya International Boundaries Office (KIBO). He noted that these officers have worked in challenging terrain, wildlife zones, and remote areas, demonstrating patriotism, technical acumen, and commitment to duty.
Acknowledging the vital logistical and institutional support provided by the Government, Mr. Gathecha mentioned the importance of security, medical, and operational facilitation, which has ensured the smooth conduct of the reaffirmation exercise.
At the same event, Juster Nkoroi, Head of the Kenya International Boundaries Office (KIBO), emphasized the strategic significance of the exercise. She stated that international boundaries define sovereignty, support effective governance, and enhance bilateral cooperation.
Ms. Nkoroi explained that the reaffirmation process involves meticulous surveying, photogrammetry, legal verification, and physical boundary marking. Every inch of the 558 kilometres covered so far has been surveyed, marked, and validated by qualified experts, ensuring precision in boundary definition.
The Kenya-Tanzania boundary reaffirmation is part of a broader government-led initiative through KIBO aimed at strengthening Kenya's border management systems. It builds on similar successful undertakings with Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, reinforcing Kenya's territorial integrity and enhancing regional integration.
The Government remains committed to advancing peaceful and collaborative boundary reaffirmation processes that ensure effective administration along international borders.