Security experts from Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda are meeting in Kigali to assess the implementation of the Northern Corridor integration projects under the ‘Mutual Peace and Security’ pact. Participants are from Police forces, Immigration departments, Prison services, natural resources and disaster management entities. Northern Corridor countries access international markets through Kenya’s Mombasa port. On Monday, the ‘Peace and Security’ cluster assessed various issues related to prevention of genocide, conflict resolution, disaster preparedness, fighting cross-border and organised crimes like terrorism, human and drug trafficking. The six-day conference will also evaluate other integration projects like free movement of persons and services, trade, industry, tourism and labour. “The conference will consider obstacles to free movement of people and how they can be addressed,” Assistant Commission of Police Jimmy Hodali, Commissioner for Peace Support Operations (PSO) in Rwanda National Police, said. According to article two of the pact, security services from partner states will work closely to combat crimes, ensure safety of people and safeguard member countries against instability that might come with the new development initiatives. Security services from the three countries, therefore, established committees of intelligence, police, immigration and correctional services to spearhead the implementation of the agreed 14-key areas of cooperation to promote and maintain stability for the development of the Northern Corridor. Areas of cooperation include conflict prevention, management and resolution, prevention of genocide, combating terrorism and piracy. Others include Peace Support Operations, disaster risk reduction, management and response, management of refugees, control of proliferation of illicit arms and light weapons, combating financial, organised and cross-border crimes such as human and drug trafficking, money laundering and cyber crimes and correctional services including exchange of prisoners, detention, custody and rehabilitation of offenders. “The conference will also design a mechanism open to other countries that will express interest to join one or all projects,” ACP Hodali added. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
