The concerns came after fighting broke out between JSF and Somalia National Army (SNA) forces in Bulla Hawa, Somalia, on July 30, 2025.
Officials said the conflict remained inside Somalia and did not affect Kenya’s territory.
Officials dismiss claims of border invasion
Mandera Deputy County Commissioner Solomon Chepoton dismissed reports that JSF troops had entered Kenya and occupied Border Point One Primary School.
He said schools across the county remain open and continue operating normally.
“The fighting was entirely within Somalia. Kenya’s territory remains secure with routine patrols by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF),” Chepoton said.
He confirmed that all 68 primary schools and 68 secondary schools in Mandera remain operational.
School continues normal operations
Border Point One Primary School became the centre of claims that foreign forces had taken over the facility.
However, school officials denied the reports.
The school’s principal, Abdul Majid Khalif Mohamed, confirmed that learning continued without interruption.
Mandera Education Director Abdi Sheikh also confirmed that the school reopened as planned and remains functional.
Security officers and regular KDF patrols continue to provide protection in the area.
Security agencies deny JSF presence in Kenya
The Kenya Police and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) dismissed reports that JSF fighters were training or occupying public facilities in Mandera.
KDF officials also said they had not found foreign troops operating inside Kenyan territory.
“We have not encountered any Jubaland fighters on Kenyan soil. Our patrols are ongoing, and residents can rest assured of their safety,” said Corporal Fredrick Muirigi.
Residents report normal activities
Despite concerns raised after the border clashes, residents say daily activities continue normally.
Traders at the Malka Sufti and Inabat border crossings reported that business operations remain unaffected.
Local residents also denied experiencing disruption caused by foreign troops.
Political claims raise tensions
The concerns were heightened after local leaders, including Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif and Senator Ali Roba, raised alarms over possible JSF movements.
They alleged that some residents faced restrictions near the border.
However, security officials maintained that the situation remains under control.
Kenya’s relationship with Jubaland forces
Jubaland Security Forces, led by President Ahmed Madobe, have historically worked with Kenya in regional security operations against Al-Shabaab.
The forces supported Kenya’s Operation Linda Nchi and helped secure strategic areas in southern Somalia, including Kismayo.
Jubaland has remained an important security partner for Kenya because of its location along the border.
Somali political rivalry behind clashes
The recent fighting in Bulla Hawa is linked to political disagreements within Somalia.
The dispute involves Ahmed Madobe and former Jubaland Security Minister Abdirashid Janaan.
Janaan later joined Somalia’s Federal Government forces and has challenged Jubaland control of the border town.
Mandera remains secure
Security agencies have maintained that Kenya remains safe despite tensions across the border.
Authorities confirmed that:
- JSF troops are not occupying Kenyan territory.
- Schools remain open.
- KDF continues border patrols.
- Normal activities continue in Mandera towns.
Residents have been urged to avoid spreading unverified information and rely on official security updates.
“Kenya is not at war. Our security forces are fully alert and in control,” Chepoton said.
