NAIROBI, Kenya – Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga has called for stronger regional cooperation to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling, warning that criminal syndicates operating across the Horn of Africa are becoming increasingly sophisticated and difficult to dismantle.
Speaking during the opening of the Regional Conference on Counter-Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants in the Horn of Africa Region, Ingonga said governments and justice sector agencies must adopt a coordinated response to effectively tackle the growing threat posed by transnational criminal networks.
He noted that human trafficking and migrant smuggling continue to exploit vulnerable populations, violate human rights, and undermine security and socio-economic development across the region.
“The fight against human trafficking requires a collective response that transcends borders and institutional mandates,” Ingonga said.
“Criminal networks are constantly adapting their methods, and our response must be equally dynamic, coordinated, and robust.”
The DPP emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration among governments, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, migration authorities, and international partners to ensure effective investigations, prosecutions, and victim protection.
The regional conference has brought together policymakers, prosecutors, investigators, migration experts, and representatives of international organizations from across the Horn of Africa to discuss emerging trends in human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
Participants are expected to share experiences, examine evolving trafficking patterns, and explore ways to enhance regional cooperation in addressing the crimes.
According to Ingonga, tackling human trafficking requires a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, enforcement, victim support, and cross-border intelligence sharing.
He said stronger partnerships among countries in the region are critical in disrupting criminal networks that often operate across multiple jurisdictions.
The conference is also expected to focus on strategies for improving victim identification and protection, strengthening prosecution efforts, and enhancing legal and institutional frameworks to address trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants.
Stakeholders attending the meeting are expected to develop practical recommendations aimed at improving coordination and reinforcing regional efforts to combat the growing menace.
The Horn of Africa remains a key migration corridor, with many people undertaking dangerous journeys in search of economic opportunities, safety, or better living conditions, often leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers and smugglers.
Ingonga reiterated Kenya’s commitment to working with regional and international partners to strengthen the fight against human trafficking and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice while victims receive the protection and support they need.
