The government of Kenya has finally spoken out after reports of a crackdown on foreign nationals in Tanzania raised concerns about the safety of its citizens living in Tanzania.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, Kenyan High Commission in Dar es Salaam assured kenyans that it had reopened for normal service following the lifting of the curfew and restrictions on movement imposed during the just recent general elections.
The mission said that the well-being of Kenyans living and working in Tanzania remained a key priority and that it was in touch with Tanzanian authorities to ensure their safety.
“The Kenya High Commission in Dar es Salaam wishes to assure the Kenyan community in Tanzania that the Mission has resumed normal operations following the lifting of the curfew and restrictions imposed after the General Elections in Tanzania,” the statement read in part.
The Commission called for Kenyans to go about their normal activities without fear, as there have been no reported incidents targeting Kenyan nationals so far.
“The Mission urges all Kenyans to remain calm and vigilant, abide by the law, and immediately report any security concerns or distress cases to the High Commission for assistance,” it added.
The embassy said that it would continue sharing official updates and advisories whenever appropriate in a bid to keep Kenyans informed on any developments that could affect safety.
The statement came after human rights groups and political leaders raised alarm following reports that two Kenyans had been caught up in post-election chaos in Tanzania.
Victims of such threats include John Okoth Ogutu, a teacher at Sky Schools in Dar es Salaam who was reportedly shot dead on October 29.
The rights group Vocal Africa said the body of Ogutu that had been taken to Mwananyamala Hospital mortuary, afterwards vanished, leaving his family distraught.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has, in the wake of the incident, written a letter to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, urging the government to intervene and help in repatriating the body of Ogutu to Kenya for burial.
