Kenya has stepped up diplomatic engagement with Tanzania amid growing concern over alleged rights violations targeting its citizens in the neighbouring country.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi said on Thursday that he held “productive consultations” with Tanzanian Foreign Minister Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo to address the matter.
“Held productive consultations on phone with my counterpart, Hon. Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, focusing on the welfare and protection of Kenyans residing and working in Tanzania,” Mudavadi said in a statement.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to safeguarding “the rights, safety, and dignity” of its nationals, noting their positive contribution to Tanzania’s economy through business, trade, and professional services.
The talks followed reports of incidents in which the rights of Kenyan nationals were allegedly infringed. Mudavadi said formal complaints had been lodged with Tanzanian authorities for investigation and appropriate action.
Both governments agreed to resolve any emerging issues through diplomatic and consular channels, consistent with international conventions and the East African Community (EAC) Common Market Protocol.
“We also reaffirmed our shared commitment to strengthen the warm and historic relations between Kenya and Tanzania, anchored on mutual respect, cooperation, and regional integration,” Mudavadi said.
He added that his ministry and the Kenyan High Commission in Dar es Salaam remained on high alert and ready to assist any citizens in need.
The High Commission earlier assured Kenyans in Tanzania that their safety and welfare remained a top priority, urging them to stay calm, observe local laws, and promptly report any security concerns.
The reassurance comes after civil society organisation Vocal Africa raised the alarm over the disappearance of two Kenyans in Tanzania — one reportedly detained and another feared dead, sparking calls for government intervention.
Tanzanian authorities have since lifted curfew restrictions imposed after the country’s general elections, allowing normal activities to resume.
