This archive report was first published on 7 July 2019.
On July 5, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta visited Tanzania on a private trip, where he met with President John Magufuli. The two leaders emphasized the importance of addressing insecurity in the region.
According to President Magufuli, citizens of either country will be subject to the laws of the country where they commit a crime. He stated, 'If a person (Tanzanian) commits a crime in Kenya, they will be subjected to Kenyan law. And if a Kenyan commits a crime in Tanzania, they will be dealt with in accordance with our laws.'
President Kenyatta echoed similar sentiments, saying, 'We want to ensure that we have peace. We know a majority of our people are good. They want to do business, to travel and to farm. But we are also practical, we know that there are bad people amongst us, we will deal with those ones firmly.'
The two leaders also discussed trade opportunities, particularly in the natural gas sector. Tanzania holds 57 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, which the country plans to export to international markets. President Magufuli expressed interest in exporting natural gas to Kenya, saying, 'We have natural gas, a lot of gas. We know Kenya needs gas. Instead of Kenya importing gas from outside East Africa, they should buy from here.'
Additionally, the two leaders agreed to revamp ferry services on Lake Victoria, which they believe will create employment, enhance connectivity, and spur related economic activities.
During his visit, President Kenyatta also visited the ailing Mama Suzana Magufuli, the mother of President John Magufuli, and prayed for her quick recovery.
