Claims of Jubaland Occupation in Mandera Disputed Amid Rising Cross-Border Tensions
Allegations that Jubaland Security Forces have occupied a primary school in Mandera County and turned it into a military base are being widely dismissed as politically driven misinformation, further intensifying scrutiny on regional tensions tied to Somali politics.
Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif and Senator Ali Ibrahim Roba recently claimed that troops from the semi-autonomous Somali region of Jubaland had seized Border Point One (BP1) Primary School. However, these statements have faced strong pushback, with sources suggesting that the accusations may be part of a propaganda campaign allegedly orchestrated by former Jubaland Security Minister Abdirashid Hassan Abdinur, popularly known as Abdirashid Janaan.
Local media report that fierce clashes recently broke out between Jubaland Security Forces and the Somalia National Army (SNA), resulting in a temporary retreat by the Kenya-backed Jubaland forces from the disputed border town of Bulla Hawa. The resurgence in conflict appears linked to a falling out between Janaan—who once played a key role in securing Bulla Hawa—and Jubaland President Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe). Janaan has since defected to the SNA and is reportedly plotting to reclaim the town.
Despite the political noise, life in Mandera County remains largely unaffected. Schools and businesses continue to operate normally, with 368 primary and 68 secondary schools confirmed to be open. There is no evidence of mass displacement or local shutdowns due to military presence.
A recent media tour of BP1 Primary School found no sign of Jubaland forces. Instead, routine patrols were being conducted by Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF). School headteacher Abdul Majid Khalif Mohamed and County Education Director Abdi Sheikh both affirmed that the school has remained open and fully functional since reopening on August 26, 2025.
Analysts believe the allegations may be part of an effort to pressure the Kenyan government into reevaluating its support for President Madobe—a key player in the regional battle against Al-Shabaab. Some also interpret the developments as part of broader clan-based political maneuvering in the lead-up to Somalia’s upcoming elections, with cross-border political rivalries now spilling into Kenyan territory.
Critics caution that the continued spread of unverified information by some Mandera leaders risks weakening Jubaland’s position and potentially bolstering extremist factions like Al-Shabaab.
While the exact motivations remain unclear, the political tensions surrounding Mandera have implications that could destabilize already fragile security arrangements along the Kenya–Somalia border.
