In the border regions of Turkana, Kenya, and Kapoeta, South Sudan, interethnic pastoralist communities utilize the diverse rangeland and montane ecosystems, Ilemi Triangle included for livestock production activities. Livestock traders have emerged, engaging in the buying and selling of animals, particularly in cross-border trade, which faces policy and regulatory challenges from national and local governments. A study on entrepreneurship and commerce at Nadapal cross-border livestock trade corridor aimed to assess the entrepreneurial capacities of local traders, map trading activities in Lokichoggio and Narus areas, and identify the challenges and opportunities in this trade. The research included 132 primary respondents (livestock traders) and 26 secondary respondents (from government and civil organizations) utilizing a survey methodology. The study reveals that livestock domestication is hampering entrepreneurship and trade growth among the cross-border communities in the Horn of Africa. The pastoralists focus on livestock domestication restricts market-driven output, thereby undermining livestock trading as a viable business. Local traders lack the necessary business skills and knowledge to expand and compete successfully in different market segments. The primary trading unions i.e., livestock marketing associations (LMAs), need better structure and organization by integrating trained individuals and promoting gender inclusivity. Additionally, traders require training in market functionality, regulations, and cross-border relations to improve trade efficiency. The study highlights the necessity for behavioral adaptations in livestock farming and trading to mitigate risks such as disputes and theft that characterize the study area, alongside the development of innovative systems. Inadequate banking services further deter bulk transactions, impacting the safety and profitability of livestock trade.