In order to address the root causes of the region's instability, the UK struck a deal with Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia.

Speaking to the BBC, UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said the agreement - worth some $12.5m (£9.9m) – will support the three countries to come up with policies in their fight against terrorism.

This is the first time high-level officials from Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia have accepted international support to address a common problem along their borders.

These borderlands are usually isolated and insecure, which makes it difficult for countries to monitor threats.

Mr Tugendhat believes that al-Shabab militants conduct terror activities in these areas because there is no governing authority.

The militants have carried out a series of attacks within the region in recent months and the group remains a threat.

The funding from the UK is also aimed at empowering local communities to effectively report suspected terror-related incidents.