Assessment of Cross-Border Security on Economic Development in East African Community: A Case of Busia Kenya-Uganda Border.

Abstract

This research investigated the intricate and dynamic interplay between cross-border security measures at the Busia border and the broader economic development of the East African Community (EAC). The EAC, comprising Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan, is marked by vibrant economic activities and significant cross-border interactions. However, the region's economic potential is closely intertwined with the effectiveness and efficiency of its cross-border security measures, making it a critical area of study. The study was anchored on three key objectives: First, to assess the state of cross-border security at the Busia border; second, to evaluate the impact of Busia’s cross-border security on economic development; and third, to develop strategies to enhance cross-border security at the Busia border. Additionally, guided by the Political Economy Theory, which explored the interaction between political institutions, economic systems, and security mechanisms. This research adopted a mixed-methods design to analyze the topic comprehensively. Quantitative data was gathered through structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of government representatives, customs officials, cross-border traders, and security specialists. The data provided measurable insights into the perceptions, experiences, and impacts of cross-border security on economic activities. Complementing this, qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key informants and stakeholders. This allowed for a deeper exploration of the nuanced and often complex issues surrounding cross-border security and its economic implications. Additionally, observational methods and document analysis provided further context and corroborated the primary data. The study's findings included an analysis of various trade statistics and reports on crossborder security measures and their impact on the East African Community's economy. It also encompassed the data collected from questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and observations of Busia town. In June 2024, the researcher and research assistants distributed questionnaires to Busia town residents and interviewed key informants from business associations and cross-border traders. The research team interviewed sixteen key informants: five from Kenya’s and Uganda’s border security patrol, two members of civil society organizations, five customs officers, three government officials, and one expert on trade patterns within the East African Community. The research team held one focus group discussion that comprised seven Respondents from various business associations and cross-border traders from Uganda and Kenya and issued twenty-two questionnaires. The study identified multifaceted issues that cross-cut and negatively affect cross-border security; therefore, as a resolve to develop strategies, respondents in the study identified the following as possible solutions: infrastructural development and investment in more technology that would aid in tracking cargo and an automated clearance system. Harmonizing trade tariffs by member states of the EAC would also further enhance economic development. Based on the data analyzed, it can be concluded that addressing issues leading to insecurity would strengthen cross-border security in Busia, thereby positively contributing to economic development. The research aimed to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on cross-border security and economic development by offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the EAC region.