Mandera Residents Fear for Lives as Somalia Conflict Spills Across Border

Residents of Mandera, Kenya, are living in fear as stray bullets and rockets from Somalia’s ongoing conflicts cross the border, prompting calls for urgent government intervention to protect civilians and uphold national security.

Residents of Mandera, a Kenyan town near the borders with Somalia and Ethiopia, are living in fear as stray bullets, rockets, and live ordnance from ongoing conflicts in Somalia continue to cross into Kenyan territory, putting lives at risk and destroying property.

Senator Ali Roba has raised concerns over the escalating situation, calling on the Kenyan government to take urgent action to protect citizens and hold both Mogadishu and the Jubaland administration accountable. “Enough is enough! Mandera Town is under constant threat from Somalia's endless wars. Stray bullets, rockets, and live ordnance are hitting Kenyan soil, endangering lives and destroying property,” Roba said in a social media post.

The current crisis is linked to the so-called “triangle war” involving Somalia’s Federal Government, the Jubaland administration, and regional militias. Recent developments include the seizure of Bulla Hawa by Somali government forces, escalating tensions in the region, and a three-day ultimatum issued by the Vice President of Jubaland to local militia leader Abdirashid Janan, which was temporarily extended after intervention by community elders.

Reports indicate that many residents of Mandera have fled their homes, becoming internally displaced within Kenya, while the presence of Ethiopian military helicopters in the area has further fuelled concerns about foreign involvement.

Community leaders and residents are now calling for immediate intervention by both national and international actors to prevent further escalation and safeguard civilians caught in the crossfire. Families continue to live in constant fear, children are unable to play outdoors, and businesses are closing early to avoid potential harm.

Mandera, a key transit point for trade between Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, has long faced security challenges due to its proximity to conflict zones. The recent spillover of violence underscores the urgent need for coordinated action to protect civilians and uphold Kenya’s sovereignty in this volatile border region.