What government has proposed to fight transnational crime on Lake Victoria

Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo. [File, Standard]

The Ministry of Interior is advocating for establishing a Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Center for Lake Victoria, to fight transnational organised crime and improve border governance.

During a workshop on countering transnational threats on Lake Victoria, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo lauded the cooperation between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in enhancing border security and coordination.

"The establishment of a regional working group, comprising officers from key border agencies in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, has been instrumental in advancing regional security and cooperation," Omollo said.

He noted that the proposed center would serve as a vital hub for coordinating information sharing and rescue operations.

"In Kisumu, we initiated essential discussions on border governance institutions and regulatory frameworks. In Entebbe, we validated assessment reports and invited the East African Community to join our efforts. In Mwanza, we focused on strengthening the capacities of our border authorities through equipment provision and comprehensive training programs," Omollo added.

Other recommendations include harmonizing fishing regulations and law enforcement frameworks across the three countries, expanding joint training programs for frontline officials, and designating additional ports of entry and fish landing sites.