Kenya-Tanzania trade ties strengthened as key exports resume at Namanga border
Business
By
David Njaaga
| Mar 22, 2024
Kenya and Tanzania have announced the resumption of key exports and the clearance of previously detained goods at the Namanga border.
The breakthrough was achieved during the Eighth Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting, which began on March 18 and concluded today, March 22, in Kisumu.
The meeting was co-chaired by Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Rebecca Miano and her Tanzanian counterpart, Stephen Byabato.
The leaders agreed on the resumption of tea exports to Tanzania, the clearance of Konyagi spirit at Namanga, and the clearance of timber at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border point.
The meeting addressed a total of 14 issues, six pertaining to Tanzania and eight to Kenya.
READ MORE
Why Kenya feels like 1895 all over again
Government push for disability inclusion
Groups raise concerns over Tobacco Bill
Why Ruto, Ouattara meeting is important for Kenya and Ivory Coast
Ruto hosts African leaders at State House ahead of summit
Bill for two decades of failure by football officials is now due
Amsons Group pledges Sh4.5b for hospitals
Governor Waiguru banks on street lights to power Kirinyaga's 24hr economy
Governor Nassir launches construction of Kongowea Level 4 Hospital
Among the issues discussed were the holistic harmonisation of levies, fees, charges and other conditions affecting trade between the two countries.
The meeting also resolved to enhance the monitoring and reporting mechanisms for the agreed areas of commitment.
The next meeting is scheduled for July 2024 in Tanzania.
Miano said Presidents William Ruto and Samia Suluhu had reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen trade, investment and economic cooperation.
"They have directed their respective trade ministers to address all issues that affect trade with a view to enhancing trade between the two nations," said Miano.