Assessing the effectiveness of security frameworks and policy interventions against transnational trafficking at the Kenya, Ethiopia, Marsabit border

Abstract

Transnational crime has increasingly become a pressing concern in the Horn of Africa, particularly along the Kenya–Ethiopia border where weak governance, porous boundaries, and socio-economic vulnerabilities converge. Despite state-led security operations, border-control measures and national and regional policy frameworks against trafficking, illicit networks continue to adapt and persist. This study seeks to assess the effectiveness of existing security frameworks and policy interventions in mitigating such crimes and enhancing human security. The study was anchored on Transnational Organized Crime Theory and Human Security Theory. A convergent mixed-methods design was used. The quantitative target population comprised households residing in border-adjacent and transit-related areas of Marsabit County, including Moyale, Sololo, North Horr, Laisamis and Saku. The qualitative target population included state and non-state stakeholders positioned along trafficking and response chains, including border and police officers, customs and immigration personnel, county officials, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, community leaders and transport/logistics actors. The study combined quantitative household surveys with qualitative key-informant interviews, structured observation, and document review. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 28, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo software. The study targeted 423 households, out of which 320 valid questionnaires were returned, representing a 75.7% response rate. The study found that existing security frameworks and policy interventions have not been sufficiently effective due to weak implementation, limited operational visibility, legal and institutional gaps, and corruption, thereby allowing trafficking to persist and undermine livelihoods, health, safety, education, and community trust. The study concluded that transnational trafficking in Marsabit County is both a criminal justice and human security challenge that requires a broader response beyond routine enforcement. The study recommended strengthening integrated border security and Kenya–Ethiopia cross-border cooperation, enhancing legal implementation and anti-corruption measures, expanding livelihood and drought-resilience interventions for vulnerable communities, improving victim protection and rehabilitation services, and promoting community-based awareness and reporting mechanisms.