Mandera blast destroys home, sparks fear amid Somali border clashes
The incident has sparked fear among residents, who are already on edge due to ongoing clashes between the Somali National Army and Jubaland Security Forces in the neighbouring Gedo region.
A devastating incident left Mandera resident Junet Sheikh Yarrow reeling after an explosive landed on his home in Bulla Mpya, Mandera town, on Monday night. The blast destroyed part of his thatched house and damaged his belongings, including bedding.
According to Junet, who spoke to the media, the explosion occurred around 10:00 pm while his eight children were asleep.
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"It was a deafening explosion that set fire on my thatched house that was partially destroyed. Thanks to God, my children are safe, and the neighbours helped me to put off the fire, but I lost properties that were destroyed," he recounted.
Junet added that security officers who arrived at the scene collected shrapnel from the explosive for investigation. He also expressed hope that the government would address the growing security concerns along the border, where two Somali security forces have been fighting over territorial control.
The incident has sparked fear among residents, who are already on edge due to ongoing clashes between the Somali National Army and Jubaland Security Forces in the neighbouring Gedo region. The fighting has caused injuries and displacement, with hundreds seeking refuge in Mandera town.
Junet Sheikh Yarrow’s house, which was partially damaged by the explosion. (Photo: Issa Hussein)
Ensure citizens' safety
Mandera Senator Ali Roba has called on the government to ensure the safety of citizens and their property in the border town.
"Mandera Town is under constant threat from Somalia's endless wars. Stray bullets, rockets, and live ordnance are hitting Kenyan soil, endangering lives and destroying properties," Roba said.
In a statement, he urged the government to take immediate action to protect its citizens and warned that silence is not an option.
"Kenya's duty is clear: protect lives and property in Mandera at all costs. Our government must immediately warn Mogadishu and Jubaland state that this is unacceptable, and our people's lives must be protected," he added.
The Jubaland government has denied reports of its soldiers being present in Mandera. Vice President Mohamed Sayid stated that their forces remain on the border and have not entered Kenyan territory.
However, residents and local leaders have expressed security concerns, with some calling for the relocation of Jubaland forces from the area.
The situation remains tense, with residents living in fear of stray bullets and explosions. Daily life has been disrupted, with businesses closing early and children unable to play outside.
The government faces mounting pressure to act to protect its citizens and restore peace in the region.
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