The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Alando, has expressed concern over the ongoing internet shutdown in Tanzania, saying it has disrupted trade and communication across the East African region.

Speaking during a talk show hosted by a local television station on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Alando said the internet blackout had far-reaching effects on several key sectors, warning that the impact extends beyond Tanzania’s borders.

“Any shutdown of the internet really affects the telecom industry in any country, so definitely, they have also been largely affected in Tanzania because people cannot buy bundles or for calls,” he said.

He explained that the disruption has created a ripple effect across multiple industries, from telecommunications to manufacturing, logistics, and small businesses.

“The impact has ripple impacts from the perspective of telecoms, manufacturers, logistic teams, SMEs and traders, among others; everyone is affected in this situation,” he noted.

Alando said the incident should serve as a reminder of how closely connected regional economies have become under the East African Community (EAC). While trade treaties and protocols bind the region economically, he stressed that political and security stability remain the foundation of any sustainable cooperation.

“No matter what treaty exists, either in terms of EAC protocols that we adhere to in terms of trade, there is also a political wing of the region that discusses any political scenarios, but no matter the case, what is important is the security, the security of the people in the region,” he said.

Alando added that ensuring people’s safety and stability should always come first before any other considerations, especially during moments of crisis.

“If that security is not guaranteed, then the first thing that has to happen is to ensure we don’t put people in a place where there will be more losses,” he said.

He further pointed out that East Africa has experienced repeated instability that continues to affect cross-border trade and economic confidence.

“East Africa region has had a lot of issues, not only Tanzania but also countries like Sudan have had a lot of crises that are in that country, and that conflict impacts generally the whole region,” he said.

Alando’s remarks come amid growing regional concern about the economic and humanitarian consequences of Tanzania’s ongoing internet disruption.