Kenya and Tanzania to join forces in the fight against terrorism

Nairobi, Kenya - Outgoing Tanzania High Commissioner to Kenya, Batilda Burian said her country would work closely with Kenya in combating terrorism among other criminal activities.

“There is need for our two countries to work together in combating terrorism activities which are increasingly becoming a threat to development of East Africa Community,” said Ms Burian.

Speaking when she met Deputy President William Ruto at his Karen office, Wednesday morning, the High Commissioner said radicalisation among the youth was to blame for increased terrorists’ activities.

“Tanzania was saddened by the recent Garissa attacks where 148 people were killed. We wish to assure you of our support as you intensify the fight against this heinous act of lawlessness. We are standing with you,” she said.

Mr Ruto said Kenya has intensified efforts in the fight against terrorism noting that the global challenge needed concerted efforts to containing it.

“We have to work together as countries in our region to eliminate terrorism activities for the sake of peace and development,” said the Deputy President

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Mr Ruto said the integration of East Africa Community has strengthened relations among its member countries noting that it has created prosperity for the region.

He said Kenya and Tanzania have enjoyed good working relations especially in the field of trade.

“There is mutual benefit among citizens of the two countries as far as business activities are concerned. It is our responsibility as ambassadors and governments to strengthen our relations to improve the living standards among our people,” said Mr Ruto.

The Deputy President at the same time said mechanisms should be put in place to expedite justice for prisoners in the two countries.

“It is important that we come up with a mechanism to dispense justice for prisoners in our countries,” he said.

The Deputy President said the Tokyo International Conference on Africa Development (TICAD) VI will be held in Kenya next year.

He added that the World Trade Organization (WTO) forum will be held in November in the country noting that it would be an opportunity for communities in East Africa to exploit their trade potentiality.

“This will be an opportunity for us as a region to host other world nations to further our agenda on development and governance,” said Mr Ruto.