Mudavadi urges diplomacy in resolving Kenya–Tanzania trade dispute
By Mustafa Juma, August 8, 2025Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who doubles up as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, has called for a diplomatic approach in addressing trade restrictions imposed on Kenyans by Tanzania, as well as managing the activities of foreign traders in Kenya.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, chaired by nominated MP Irene Mayaka on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Mudavadi urged patience and constructive dialogue to resolve cross-border disputes.
“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,” Mudavadi told the committee.
Kenya’s gains from EAC
The Committee sought explanations on Kenya’s gains from the East African Community (EAC) despite being its largest financial contributor and questioned whether a lack of political goodwill between Kenya and Tanzania was fuelling insecurity on Migingo Island.
Members also pressed for policy reforms to protect Kenyan small-scale traders from unfair foreign competition while supporting foreign investors who create local jobs.
On the challenge of work permits in Tanzania, Mudavadi revealed that Kenya has formally requested reciprocal treatment from Dar es Salaam.
“In a joint technical meeting of Commissioners of Labour and Chiefs of Immigration of Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania held in January, we requested equal treatment on the issuance of business passes gratis to exempt Kenyans from work permit charges,” he explained.
Regional integration
Defending Kenya’s continued engagement with the EAC, Mudavadi highlighted the benefits of regional integration, including expanded trade, increased investment, and enhanced infrastructure.
He credited the EAC’s Customs Union and Common Market protocols for enabling free movement of goods and capital, thereby opening larger markets for Kenyan enterprises.
He also cautioned against xenophobic policies across Africa, citing incidents where foreigners, including mothers and children, have been denied medical treatment.
“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 stated.
In her closing remarks, Mayaka assured the public of the Committee’s commitment to addressing citizens’ concerns, pledging continued engagements with the Prime CS and other relevant ministries to find lasting regional solutions.