In this insightful interview, researcher Hassan Kochore shares his perspectives on the XCEPT programme’s impact in Northern Kenya and Southern Ethiopia. He highlights how borderlands are shaped by global, regional and local forces, especially by the communities themselves. Hassan discusses how XCEPT has effectively bridged the gap between research and policy through its innovative local research network.

By engaging researchers who also play social and political roles, the programme fosters a unique bottom-up approach that strengthens the connection between local communities and decision-makers.