Deputy Minister for East African Affairs, James Kinyasi Millya (MP), has visited the Namanga One Stop Border Post (OSBP) in Arusha Region to evaluate service delivery, infrastructure, and operational efficiency at the key cross-border facility.
The visit, conducted on January 24, 2026, saw Millya received by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Arusha Regional Manager, Mr. Deogratius Shuma, alongside representatives from the Longido District Commissioner’s Office and officials from 18 government institutions operating at the center.
As part of his engagement, the Deputy Minister met leaders of cross-border business associations, including TAFFA, CHAWAMATA, TCCIA, and women entrepreneurs involved in trade along the Tanzania–Kenya border.
Discussions focused on improving trade facilitation, service efficiency, and strengthening collaboration between government agencies and private sector stakeholders.
Millya said the Namanga border remains one of the most strategic economic gateways between Tanzania and Kenya, playing a central role in the movement of manufactured goods, agricultural products, tourism services, and cross-border business activities.
He noted that the post is a vital driver of regional trade and people-to-people interaction under the East African Community (EAC) integration framework.
The Deputy Minister’s inspection aimed at assessing the overall performance of the Tanzanian side of the OSBP, reviewing customs operations, and identifying areas requiring improvement in infrastructure and service coordination.
During the meeting, stakeholders raised concerns over operational challenges affecting efficiency at the border.
They, however, commended the Government for taking steps to engage directly with service providers and traders, expressing optimism that identified challenges will be addressed to enhance productivity and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Tanzania and Kenya.
The Government reiterated its commitment to upgrading infrastructure, streamlining border processes, and improving service delivery at Namanga to support regional trade, economic growth, and deeper EAC integration.