Training of Trainers (TOT) program on Coordinated Border Management (CBM) in the IGAD region, held from
October 7th to 12th, 2024, in Nairobi. The program aimed to equip a pool of trainers with the skills and knowledge to transfer CBM practices effectively to border agencies’ staff across the member states, ensuring the sustainability of training actions.
The TOT program was designed to:
1. Develop a manual on CBM, including TOT modules for cascading training activities at the state level.
2. Equip trainers with skills on best practices for CBM, covering legal foundations, operational practices, and the use of technology for effective border management.
3. Facilitate capacity building for customs and other border officers to enhance border security and efficiency in trade facilitation.
Structure of the Training Program
The training covered six main modules:
1. Introduction to CBM: Overview of CBM measures, including gender considerations.
2. Legal Foundations and Soft Tools: Exploration of legal frameworks and international agreements guiding CBM practices.
3. Joint Management Practices: Effective implementation of CBM at border posts, including the use of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs).
4. CBM under the AfCFTA: Integration of CBM within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
5. Border Agency Cooperation: Mechanisms for inter-agency collaboration at national and international levels.
6. IGAD-Specific Tools and Initiatives: Review of policies, frameworks, and initiatives supporting CBM within the IGAD region.
Training Delivery and Methodology
Training activities were conducted with interactive methods, including group discussions, case studies, and practical sessions. A special
emphasis was placed on gender-sensitive approaches, recognizing the diverse needs at borders.
Achievements
• Development of Training Manual: A comprehensive CBM training manual was developed to guide future training activities.
• Knowledge Dissemination Roadmap: A roadmap was created to adapt and implement training across IGAD member states.
• Enhanced Trainer Capacity: Participants gained a deeper understanding of CBM and were equipped to train others effectively.
Challenges Faced
• Limited staff availability for widespread training.
• Variability in existing infrastructure and resources across border points.
• Language barriers affecting communication among officers from different countries.
Recommendations
• Expand Training Programs: Scale up TOT programs to reach more border oLicers.
• Improve Infrastructure: Invest in facilities and technology to support training and
border management.
• Strengthen Cooperation Frameworks: Develop more formal agreements for
inter-agency cooperation