MWE Correspondent
President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Thursday held discussions with Kenya’s outgoing Ambassador to Tanzania, Isaac Njenga, at State House in Dar es Salaam, a meeting that highlighted the steady strengthening of relations between the two East African neighbours.
The talks centred on ways to further deepen cooperation in trade and investment, areas that both countries consider critical to shared economic growth and regional stability. Officials briefed on the meeting said the conversation reflected a mutual desire to ensure that diplomatic ties translate into practical benefits for businesses, workers, and communities on both sides of the border.
President Samia praised Ambassador Njenga for his contribution to enhancing bilateral relations during his tenure, noting that Tanzania and Kenya are bound by long-standing historical, cultural, and economic ties. She emphasized that close cooperation between the two governments remains essential in addressing challenges that affect cross-border trade, including regulatory hurdles and logistical constraints.
The President reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to maintaining an open and predictable investment climate, stressing that economic diplomacy remains a key pillar of her administration. She pointed to ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, modernize ports, and harmonize policies with regional partners as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Tanzania’s position within the East African Community.
Ambassador Njenga, in turn, expressed gratitude for the support he received from Tanzanian authorities throughout his assignment. He said relations between Nairobi and Dodoma have experienced renewed momentum in recent years, marked by frequent high-level engagements and improved cooperation across several sectors. According to the ambassador, closer collaboration in transport, energy, agriculture, and tourism could significantly boost regional trade and enhance economic resilience.
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Both leaders acknowledged the important role played by regional integration in driving sustainable development. They agreed that stronger coordination among East African states is necessary to unlock the full potential of the regional market and improve competitiveness in the global economy. In this context, they noted that trade between Tanzania and Kenya continues to grow, supported by shared infrastructure projects and increased movement of people and goods.
The meeting also touched on the importance of peace and stability as foundations for economic progress. President Samia reiterated Tanzania’s long-standing foreign policy principle of good neighbourliness, underscoring the country’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with its neighbours. She added that sustained dialogue helps prevent misunderstandings and builds trust, which is essential for long-term cooperation.
Analysts say the engagement reflects President Samia’s broader focus on economic diplomacy, which seeks to attract investment and strengthen regional partnerships. By nurturing close ties with Kenya, Tanzania aims to reinforce its role as a strategic gateway for trade and logistics in the region, while contributing to shared prosperity.
As Ambassador Njenga prepares to conclude his mission, both sides expressed confidence that the strong foundation built during his tenure will continue to guide relations between the two countries. With continued political goodwill and cooperation within frameworks such as regional integration and bilateral trade, Tanzania and Kenya are expected to further expand their partnership in the years ahead.
