In a recent announcement, Tanzania's Trade Minister Selemani Jafo outlined a sweeping ban that restricts foreign nationals from participating in 15 specific sectors, including mobile money transfers, beauty salons, and small-scale mining. The directive aims to alleviate competition for Tanzanian traders, amidst escalating concerns regarding foreign (particularly Chinese) involvement in local markets. Severine Mushi, head of the Kariakoo traders' association, publicly welcomed the decision, emphasizing its positive impact on Tanzanian livelihoods.
However, reactions in Kenya have been fierce, with critics arguing that the ban contravenes East African Community (EAC) agreements that promote the free movement of people and trade. Kenyan parliamentarian Bernard Shinali expressed fears of potential reciprocal measures, citing the significant presence of Tanzanians in Kenya's own mining industry.
Veteran hotelier Mohammed Hersi questioned the effectiveness of protectionist policies, asserting that they might hinder national growth. As Kenyans took to social media to voice their frustrations, many pointed out the inconsistency of Tanzania's approach, given that Tanzanians operate freely in small businesses across Kenya.
The political landscape between the two nations remains fraught, with tensions already present due to Tanzania's imposition of protective tariffs. In a diplomatic climate that could be further strained by Tanzania's upcoming general elections in October, critics warn that the ongoing fallout may threaten regional relations. Kenya's Foreign Affairs Minister had previously highlighted the close ties between the two countries, noting that approximately 250,000 Kenyans reside and work in Tanzania.
As discussions unfold, the future of commercial interaction between Kenya and Tanzania hangs in the balance, with calls for clarity and cooperation from lawmakers across both nations.
However, reactions in Kenya have been fierce, with critics arguing that the ban contravenes East African Community (EAC) agreements that promote the free movement of people and trade. Kenyan parliamentarian Bernard Shinali expressed fears of potential reciprocal measures, citing the significant presence of Tanzanians in Kenya's own mining industry.
Veteran hotelier Mohammed Hersi questioned the effectiveness of protectionist policies, asserting that they might hinder national growth. As Kenyans took to social media to voice their frustrations, many pointed out the inconsistency of Tanzania's approach, given that Tanzanians operate freely in small businesses across Kenya.
The political landscape between the two nations remains fraught, with tensions already present due to Tanzania's imposition of protective tariffs. In a diplomatic climate that could be further strained by Tanzania's upcoming general elections in October, critics warn that the ongoing fallout may threaten regional relations. Kenya's Foreign Affairs Minister had previously highlighted the close ties between the two countries, noting that approximately 250,000 Kenyans reside and work in Tanzania.
As discussions unfold, the future of commercial interaction between Kenya and Tanzania hangs in the balance, with calls for clarity and cooperation from lawmakers across both nations.
