This archive report was first published on 4 May 2021.
On May 4, 2021, Kenya and Tanzania took a significant step towards strengthening their bilateral relations after a tense period under the leadership of former Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli.
During a historic meeting at State House in Nairobi, Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta and Samia Suluhu agreed to deepen their ties, with President Kenyatta pledging to lead the way in working with his Tanzanian counterpart to enhance unity between the two nations and members of the East Africa Community.
“Your visit has given us a chance to renew our bilateral relations and my government shall lead the way in working with your government, to ensure we enhance our unity as neighbours and members of the East Africa Community,” President Kenyatta said.
The two leaders discussed various areas of cooperation, including social integration, trade, tourism, and cultural activities, with President Kenyatta highlighting the importance of their shared heritage and culture.
They also inked a deal to construct a gas pipeline between Dar es Salaam and Mombasa, which is expected to reduce the cost of power in Kenya and provide environmentally friendly energy for industries.
President Suluhu emphasized the significance of the meeting, stating that the two countries are not just trade partners but also friends. She noted that Kenya is Tanzania's largest trade partner in the region and fifth globally, with over 500 trade deals and 50,000 Tanzanians employed in Kenya.
The two leaders also agreed to adopt an expeditious process of dealing with outstanding issues that may arise in the course of business.
