The Kenyan government has announced the suspension of the construction of the Somalia- Kenya border wall in order to pave way for bilateral talks between the two countries.
The construction plans were interrupted amid tensions in Mandera Town and Bukahawa in Somalia over a dispute in which some 64 houses have been earmarked for demolition to pave way for the border wall construction.
"We have agreed to temporarily halt the construction and border securitisation pending the fate of about 64 houses that lie directly on the border," noted Mandera Governor Ali Roba.
[caption caption="File image of Mandera Governor Ali Roba"]
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Somali team led by Gedo Governor Mohammed Mahamud stated: "We have agreed to stop the plan and invite both sides to discuss key issues including what effects the fence will have on the people."
However, the County boss accused Somalia government of spreading propaganda concerning forceful evictions and the demolition of the houses.
"Our Somali brothers have been misinformed that Kenya is plotting to encroach on their land, a situation that has led to a standoff between KDF personnel supervising the project and residents of Bulahawa, "he asserted.
Additionally, Gedo region Governor Mohammed urged the Somalia residents along the border to remain calm and wait for talks between President Mohammed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Uhuru Kenyatta.
“On behalf Somalia government we support dialogue discussing foundations of border relations. We have agreed to suspend the wall construction until bilateral talks are concluded,” Mohammed expressed.
The two leaders stated that they were hopeful and looking forward to cordial relations with neighbours.
Last year, the government announced a plan to fast-track the construction of the wall aimed at blocking al Shabaab terrorists, who entered Kenya through the porous border.
[caption caption="File image of Kenya Defence Forces inspecting the construction progress"]
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