Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi has called for calm and dialogue in addressing trade restrictions imposed on Kenyan traders by Tanzania.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, Mudavadi emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement to resolve cross-border disputes affecting small and medium-sized enterprises operating in both countries.
“Let us not demand confrontation on some of the issues, including how to treat small and medium-scale entrepreneurs in Kenya. In case diplomacy doesn’t work, I will declare its failure so that we may engage other channels,” said Mudavadi.
The Committee, chaired by Hon. Irene Mayaka, pressed the Prime CS on a range of issues, from trade barriers to regional security concerns, including the long-running stalemate over Migingo Island.
Members questioned whether the lack of political goodwill between Nairobi and Dodoma was contributing to persistent tensions.
Lawmakers also raised concerns over the impact of foreign traders on Kenya’s informal economy, calling for policy reforms to protect small-scale businesses and hawkers while still supporting foreign investors who create employment.
Responding to queries on work permit challenges facing Kenyans in Tanzania, Mudavadi revealed that Kenya had formally requested reciprocal treatment.
He cited a recent technical meeting between labour and immigration officials from both countries, during which Kenya asked Tanzania to exempt Kenyan nationals from work permit fees.
“In a joint technical meeting of Commissioners of Labour and Chiefs of Immigration of Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania held on January 13th to 14th in Kenya, we requested equal treatment on issuance of business pass GRATIS to exempt Kenya from charges on work permits,” he explained.
Mudavadi defended Kenya’s sustained participation in the East African Community (EAC), arguing that regional integration has boosted trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
He underscored that the Customs Union and Common Market protocols have facilitated the free movement of goods and capital, creating expanded markets for Kenyan enterprises.
Cautioning against xenophobic sentiments, Mudavadi urged African states to uphold unity and mutual respect.
“We have seen some situations in some countries where foreigners face discrimination, for example, mothers and children being denied medical treatment in hospitals. Kenya should play a role in fostering the African good,” he said.
