Somalia launches regional Programme to combat Human Smuggling and Strengthen Border Security

The Federal Government of Somalia, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Kingdom’s Border Security Command, has launched a new regional programme aimed at strengthening border management and combating human smuggling and transnational organized crime.

The Regional Counter-Smuggling Programme was launched in Mogadishu on Thursday with funding from the UK and implementation support from IOM. The initiative seeks to enhance security at Somalia’s airports and other border points while strengthening protection mechanisms for vulnerable migrants.

According to the Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA), the three-year programme will focus on upgrading border management infrastructure, enhancing the capabilities of frontline officers through specialized training, and improving coordination among countries in the region.

The programme will also promote closer cooperation between Somalia and neighbouring countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda, to address cross-border human smuggling networks and other forms of organized crime.

Authorities and partners said the initiative will contribute to safer and more effective migration management while helping protect migrants from exploitation, trafficking and other risks associated with irregular migration routes.

The launch comes amid continued efforts by Somalia and its international partners to strengthen border security and regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The programme is expected to support the development of stronger systems for identifying and responding to smuggling activities while improving coordination among relevant national and regional institutions.

Mustaqbal