Nairobi, Kenya – As part of the Better Migration Management (BMM) Programme, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) conducted a virtual capacity-building session designed to strengthen cross-border management and cooperation within the East and Horn of Africa region. The training focused on accelerating One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) operationalization, a critical aspect of regional development and collaboration that IOM has closely collaborated with the East African Community (EAC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

The online training, structured around the IOM IBM Training Manual and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Cross-Border Cooperation developed under the BMM programme, brought together government stakeholders responsible for cross-border management from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan and Uganda.

Participants gained a better understanding of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) in both global and regional contexts. They also acquired valuable insights into strategies for tackling modern border challenges and improved their ability to use innovative operational methods. This comprehensive training covered critical subjects such as Migration and Human Rights, Trade Facilitation, Gender Inclusion, Cross-border Security and Regional Collaboration.

The training event was marked by lively discussions, knowledge sharing, and the development of practical skills expected to contribute significantly to the region's border management capabilities. Participants left the training equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to drive positive change and improve operational efficiency at border posts.

The successful completion of this training marks a significant step towards strengthening cross-border management in the East and Horn of Africa. IOM remains committed to facilitating sustainable development, trade, and regional cooperation by equipping government stakeholders and regional participants with enhanced knowledge and capabilities.

Following the training session, IOM will continue supporting actors in enhancing their capacity, fostering cross-border cooperation, and enhancing regional collaboration by conducting more in-person and virtual trainings across these topics.

The BMM Programme is financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. Its objective is to improve the safe, orderly, and regular management of migration within and from the Horn of Africa region by applying a human rights-based approach. The programme is implemented by British Council, CIVIPOL, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, IOM, and UNODC in Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda.

For further information and enquiries, please contact:

Leon Buyu, Senior Programme Assistant (BMM) - Immigration and Border Governance, IOM Regional Office for East and Horn of Africa, Email: lbuyu@iom.int