With generous support from the European Union, a collaborative effort by International Organization for Migration Kenya, International Organization for Migration Somalia, Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and Organization for Social Development in Africa successfully delivered a five-day cross-border technical learning visit and knowledge exchange mission from 25th to 29th March 2026.
The mission brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from Mandera County departments, the Office of the County Commissioner, line ministries from Somalia, development partners, and community representatives from both Kenya and Somalia. This inclusive engagement aimed to strengthen cross-border collaboration by fostering meaningful interactions, promoting shared learning, and enhancing coordination among key actors working along the Mandera–Beled Hawa border corridor.
At its core, the initiative was designed to facilitate the exchange of best practices, improve coordination mechanisms, and promote community-driven solutions. By doing so, it contributes to harmonised efforts in building resilience and advancing sustainable development in a region that faces shared environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Knowledge Sharing and Field-Based Learning
The first day of the mission featured a comprehensive workshop that introduced participants to the Daris Wacan initiative and outlined the objectives and expectations of the learning exchange. This session set the stage for collaborative dialogue and knowledge sharing among participants from both sides of the border.
Over the following four days, participants engaged in extensive field visits across key project sites. In Kenya, the team visited Bella, Burabor, and Bulla locations in Mandera East Sub-county. In Somalia, the mission extended to Dhuxunguduud, Bulla Amin, and Bulla Garas in Beled Hawa District, Gedo region, Jubaland State.
These visits provided a practical platform for participants to observe ongoing interventions firsthand. The team assessed various water infrastructure projects, interacted with water users’ associations and water management committees, and toured climate-smart agricultural farms that are helping communities adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Driving Impact Through Collaboration
Throughout the mission, participants actively engaged in discussions, asked critical questions, and shared insights based on their experiences. This interactive approach ensured that the learning exchange was not only informative but also solution-oriented.
The mission proved to be a highly productive platform for cross-border learning, with participants gaining valuable knowledge and practical lessons that can be applied within their respective contexts. By strengthening partnerships and enhancing mutual understanding, the initiative reinforces the importance of collaborative, community-led approaches in addressing shared challenges.
As stakeholders returned to their respective regions, they carried with them strengthened relationships, improved technical insights, and a renewed commitment to advancing resilience and sustainable development across the border communities of Mandera and Beled Hawa.
