THE CHARACTERISTICS OF MICRO-REGIONALIZATION BETWEEN ETHIOPIA AND KENYA AT THE MOYALE MICRO-REGION AND ITS PAYBACKS

Author: Tesfaye Molla

ABSTRACT

This paper aims to assess the characteristics of cross-border interactions among the people of Ethiopia and Kenya across the border in Moyale. It was conducted through the collection of secondary data and information.  It is revealed that the Moyale micro-region is a favorable area for social and economic ties, as similar communal groups such as the Borana, Garri, Gabra, and Burji are living, which facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services that buttress micro-regionalization between Ethiopia and Kenya. It is found that cross-border market and trade activities are important for sustaining border communities’ livelihoods. Most remarkably, people of the two communities living in Ethiopia and Kenya are further integrated in the socio-political aspects. Besides the instincts stimulated by inter-group marriages, people in Ethiopia cross the border to participate in the election of Members of Parliament and members to the county in Kenya, and the communities have even two ID cards –an Ethiopian and a Kenyan- though the Ethiopian law prohibits dual citizenship. They also usually cross the border to access health centers and schools on the other side. Both Ethiopian and Kenyan governments should design and enforce policies that encourage cross-border micro-regional socio-economic activities that would capitalize on comparative advantage for different local and national economies.

Keywords: Micro-Regionalization, Cross-Border Socio-Economic Interaction, Ethiopia, Kenya, Moyale, paybacks

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