Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen has directed the discontinuation of a planned multi-agency security facility along the Moyale–Marsabit–Isiolo road corridor following a boundary dispute between Wajir and Marsabit counties over the proposed site.

The corridor has been identified by security agencies as a major route for arms trafficking, narcotics, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes. The proposed installation had been developed through consultations under the Jukwaa la Usalama forum, with the aim of strengthening coordinated security operations in the region.

Funding for the project had been initiated through the Eldas National Government Constituencies Development Fund following approval by relevant county security structures.

The dispute emerged after it was established that the selected site for construction lies in an area claimed by both Wajir and Marsabit counties, resulting in tensions between local leaders and communities. The matter prompted a high-level meeting convened by the Interior Ministry involving representatives from both counties.

“Following several deliberations by the security agencies in the region and submissions during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum, a consensus emerged to establish a multi-agency facility along the stretch to enhance security coverage,” read a statement by Murkomen on X.

Resolution of contested site

During the meeting, chaired by Murkomen, it was resolved that the construction at the contested location be discontinued and the site abandoned. It was further agreed that the North Eastern and Eastern regional security teams, led by Regional Commissioners John Otieno and Jacob Muganda, will identify a new site for the facility in consultation with the National Security Council.

The facility will be implemented as a national security installation. Leaders and National Government Administration Officers will conduct public barazas aimed at reducing tensions and promoting dialogue among affected communities.

The matter of the boundary dispute between Wajir and Marsabit, along with other similar disputes, will be referred to relevant institutions including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission for determination.

Murkomen stated that the government remains committed to advancing the project once a suitable site is identified and called for cooperation from all parties involved. Leaders from Marsabit County present included Governor Mohamud Mohamed Ali, Senator Mohamed Chute, Naomi Waqo, Col. Dido Raso, and Prof. Jaldesa Guyo.

Security concerns along corridor

From Wajir County, those present included Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Senator Abass Mohamed, Fatuma Jehow, Adan Keynan, Abdi Saney, Aden Daudi, Hussein Barre, and Yusuf Farah.

The Moyale–Marsabit–Isiolo corridor has in recent years been associated with reports of illicit trafficking and banditry incidents, prompting increased security interventions by state agencies.

The proposed multi-agency facility was intended to enhance surveillance, coordination, and rapid response along the route.

Security officials have indicated that identification of an alternative site will proceed under national coordination structures to ensure continuity of the project without further escalation of local tensions.

The government maintains that the establishment of the facility remains a priority in strengthening security along the northern transport corridor.