In a historic gathering that bridged national boundaries and celebrated shared cultural heritage, leaders from Kenya and Ethiopia converged in Koket, Moyale, Ethiopia, on December 29, 2025, to officially launch the Borana Ethiopia University Student Association (BESA).
This pivotal event, themed “Education, Empowerment, and Unity,” not only formalized a vital platform for Borana students but also underscored the transformative power of learning in fostering regional cohesion, breaking poverty cycles, and nurturing future leaders amid the challenges of cross-border communities.
The launch ceremony, held in the vibrant town of Koket, drew an impressive array of dignitaries, students, elders, and community representatives from both sides of the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
At its core, BESA aims to unite Ethiopian-born Borana students pursuing higher education in Kenya, providing them with essential networks for academic and social empowerment while reinforcing their ties to the broader Borana community.
This initiative emerges as a beacon of hope in a region where educational access often contends with socioeconomic barriers, geographical divides, and cultural preservation needs.
By creating a dedicated association, BESA seeks to advocate for enhanced educational opportunities, facilitate mentorship programs, and promote dialogues on leadership and identity, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in the Borana heartlands spanning Marsabit County in Kenya and southern Ethiopia.
The proceedings commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome from Kabajamo Galma Koropicha, the Mayor of Moyale Town, who set an uplifting tone for the day. In his opening remarks, the mayor invoked the wisdom of Shalaka Jatani Ali, urging parents to prioritize schooling for their children.
He poignantly quoted the Borana proverb, “Baradha nami nama ta’uu nama barate,” which translates to emphasizing that true personhood and completeness are achieved only through education.
This sentiment resonated deeply, framing education not merely as a personal pursuit but as a communal imperative that elevates families and societies alike.
Echoing this call, Moyale Member of Parliament Professor Guyo Jaldesa delivered a compelling address, portraying education as society’s most potent equalizer.
He articulated how it empowers every child, irrespective of their origins, to ascend with dignity, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose.
Professor Jaldesa highlighted education’s role in dismantling entrenched poverty, cultivating authentic leadership, and instilling hope within marginalized communities.
His words painted a vivid picture of a future where Borana youth, armed with knowledge, could drive meaningful change, transcending the limitations imposed by economic hardships or border constraints.
The event’s emphasis on unity was further amplified by contributions from other prominent figures.
Halkano Konso, the Uran MCA, stressed the inherent strength derived from collective solidarity, cautioning against the perils of division that could lead to widespread communal setbacks.
Similarly, Dida Uram, MCA for Butiye, warned that without robust educational foundations, the Borana community risks being sidelined in an increasingly globalized world, unable to compete on equal footing.
These insights wove together a narrative of interconnectedness, reminding attendees that the Borana people’s resilience lies in their ability to collaborate across frontiers.
High-level endorsements added significant weight to the launch. The Abba Gada Borana, Guyo Boru Guyo, accompanied by the Council of Elders from the Gada System—a traditional Borana governance structure—expressed unwavering support for BESA.
They described the association as a manifestation of progressive community spirit, one that must be nurtured to benefit present and future generations.
This backing from cultural custodians highlighted BESA’s alignment with Borana values, blending modern educational aspirations with time-honored traditions of wisdom and collective decision-making.
Practical commitments from political leaders further solidified the event’s impact. Saku MP Col. (Rtd) Dido Ali Rasso pledged to shoulder the students’ challenges as his own, assuring the association of his steadfast solidarity and resources.
Meanwhile, Principal Secretary Kello Harsama unveiled ambitious plans to establish a primary boarding school at Bori, specifically designed to support Ethiopian students seeking education in Kenya.
This initiative addresses immediate logistical hurdles, such as accommodation and access, that often deter cross-border enrollment, paving the way for more inclusive learning environments.
Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute, along with other distinguished guests from both nations, contributed to the rich tapestry of discussions, focusing on cultural identity and education’s pivotal role in regional progress.
The gathering evolved into a dynamic forum where participants engaged in thoughtful exchanges, exploring how BESA could serve as a catalyst for broader initiatives, including scholarships, cultural exchange programs, and advocacy for policy reforms that ease educational mobility between Kenya and Ethiopia.
As the ceremony concluded, the atmosphere brimmed with optimism, reflecting a collective vision for a more empowered Borana diaspora. BESA’s formation arrives at a critical juncture, amid global calls for equitable education and sustainable development goals.
By fostering networks among university students, the association not only amplifies individual voices but also strengthens bilateral relations between Kenya and Ethiopia, potentially inspiring similar models in other border regions.
In an era where education is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of peace and prosperity, this launch stands as a testament to the enduring power of unity in overcoming adversity, ensuring that Borana youth are equipped to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for their communities.
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