Islamabad, A delegation from the Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in both Pakistan and Kenya, recently concluded a study visit to Kenya aimed at enhancing inter-agency coordination in immigration and border governance. The visit, which took place from January 22 to 26, 2024, allowed Pakistani officials to engage directly with their Kenyan counterparts and explore successful strategies in migration and border management.
According to United Nations Pakistan, the delegation, led by Mr. Khushal Khan, Additional Secretary for Internal and Foreigners’ Security at Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior, included representatives from various Pakistani governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Investigation Agency, and the National Database and Registration Authority. The visit focused on exchanging knowledge and insights on effective border management practices, with particular attention to the operationalization of inter-agency coordination frameworks.
During their time in Kenya, the Pakistani delegation engaged with key stakeholders within Kenya’s immigration and border governance sector, including meetings with high-level officials such as the Principal Secretary of Internal Security and National Administration, the Principal Secretary of Immigration, and directors of the Kenya Coastguard and Kenya Airports Authority. These interactions provided the Pakistani officials with a comprehensive overview of Kenya’s approach to immigration and border management, including strategies for effective inter-agency collaboration.
The delegation’s itinerary also included visits to critical border crossing points in Kenya, such as the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, the Namanga One Stop Border Post, and the Kilindini Seaport in Mombasa. These site visits offered practical insights into the day-to-day operations of border management and the collaborative efforts of various agencies involved in ensuring security and efficiency at Kenya’s borders.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the visit, Mr. Khushal Khan emphasized the significance of the knowledge exchange with Kenyan officials, particularly highlighting the operational aspects of Kenya’s Border Control Operations and Coordination Committee. He noted that the insights gained during the visit would be instrumental in strengthening Pakistan’s own immigration and border governance frameworks.
The study visit represents a proactive effort by the Government of Pakistan, supported by the IOM, to explore and implement best practices in border management and inter-agency coordination. This initiative underscores the commitment of both Pakistan and Kenya to ensuring secure and efficient border operations, facilitated by international cooperation and knowledge sharing.