Lamu, Garissa Counties renew dispute over border territory

Tensions are simmering between Lamu and Garissa counties over the ownership of the contested Dar-es-Salaam Point, a strategic area located along the Kenya-Somalia border.

Lamu Governor Issa Timamy has taken a firm stance, challenging Garissa's claim to the area and demanding clarity from national authorities.

Speaking in Mokowe, Governor Timamy insisted that Dar-es-Salaam Point, including the Ishakani Village and adjacent shoreline, rightfully belongs to Lamu County.

He cited the District and Provinces Act of 1992, which, he argued, clearly defines Lamu's boundary as extending to Somalia — not Garissa.

Timamy further asserted that Garissa has no coastline and should not interfere in maritime matters or coastal territory.

"This area is within Lamu’s jurisdiction. Garissa is an inland county. This illegal claim must be stopped immediately," Timamy was quoted saying by Nation Africa.

Backing the governor’s sentiments, nominated Senator Shakila Abdalla expressed concern that allowing Garissa to annex Dar-es-Salaam Point would rob Lamu residents of vital resources and strategic advantages.

She said she had already reached out to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi — who also oversees the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs docket — urging government intervention to preserve Lamu’s historical and legal boundaries.

The matter has, however, drawn sharp criticism from leaders and elders in Garissa.

Amey Dubat, a spokesperson for the Garissa elders, expressed disappointment over Timamy’s remarks and called for calm.

He urged the two counties to resolve the issue through dialogue and proposed that both send delegations to settle the dispute amicably.

Ijara MP Abdi Ali also weighed in, stating that the disputed land falls squarely within Ijara Constituency in Garissa County. He accused Lamu leaders of stirring unnecessary tensions and warned them to cease laying claim to the area.

As the row escalates, both sides remain steadfast, each insisting the territory belongs to them.

National government intervention may be necessary to resolve the dispute before it threatens to disrupt relations between the two counties or spark a larger territorial crisis.

It is not the first time that leaders from both counties have crossed swords over the disputed region.

In September 2024, Lamu elders and leaders demanded that their Garissa counterparts stop laying claim to what they insist is Lamu's rightful territory.

They argued that historical maps clearly show Dar es Salaam Point and Ishakani as part of Lamu County.

However, Ijara lawmaker Ali had vehemently stated that the disputed Dar es Salaam Point belongs to Garissa and is within his Ijara Constituency.

He advised those who had doubts about the matter to delve into history, obtain administrative maps, and arm themselves with knowledge about the subject.

"I want to make it clear that Dar es Salaam Point is in Garissa and within my Ijara Constituency. We respect the Lamu people. They're our neighbours, but they should stop claiming ownership of this border point since it belongs to Garissa County," said Ali.