Residents of Border Point One in Mandera East are calling on the national government to urgently reinforce security along the Kenya–Somalia border following intensified clashes in the Somali town of Bulla Hawa.
The ongoing conflict between Somalia’s federal government forces and those loyal to the Jubaland administration has escalated, sparking fear and insecurity among Kenyan communities living near the frontier.
According to local reports, heavily armed fighters fleeing the violence in Bulla Hawa have crossed into Kenyan territory, seeking refuge in private farms and nearby villages within Mandera East.
Residents now fear for their safety as the foreign presence and the threat of spillover violence grow more severe by the day.
“Our lives are in danger. The warring armies of Somalia and Jubaland fighting in Bulla Hawa have crossed the border to this side. No one can do anything here; we are in danger,” said Noor Sheikh, a resident of Border Point One.
The situation has been further compounded by a growing humanitarian crisis.
Locals report that the influx of displaced individuals has strained already scarce resources, leading to food insecurity and destruction of livelihoods.
Farms and property are being overrun, and many residents are struggling to feed their families.
“The people are dying because of hunger. Their farms and property are being destroyed. Nobody is talking about this place. We fear these people. We want to ask the government to take action,” said another concerned resident.
The residents are appealing to national security agencies and the county government to intervene immediately and restore calm.
They emphasize the need for increased patrols, surveillance, and coordinated efforts to safeguard Kenyan communities from the unfolding cross-border tensions.
As the situation in Bulla Hawa remains volatile, residents along the Mandera border continue to live in fear, hoping their plea for protection will be heard before the conflict spills further into their homeland.