Prominent businessman and Taifa Group Chairman, Rostam Azizi, has called for the establishment of a single, harmonised business system between Tanzania and Kenya, saying the move would significantly boost trade, attract investment, and unlock wider economic opportunities for citizens of both nations.
Azizi made the remarks in Dar es Salaam during the Kenya–Tanzania Business Conference held alongside the state visit of Kenyan President William Ruto.
The conference brought together senior government leaders, investors, and private sector stakeholders, focusing on strengthening economic cooperation within East Africa.
Speaking at the forum, Azizi said the time had come for the two countries to move beyond traditional cooperation and instead adopt a practical economic system that allows businesses to operate seamlessly across borders.
He explained that a unified framework would reduce unnecessary delays, simplify procedures, and create a predictable environment for investors, particularly small and medium enterprises.
According to Azizi, closer economic integration would directly benefit ordinary citizens by expanding job opportunities, improving access to markets, and lowering the cost of doing business.
“We must now focus on building a single business system that removes barriers and allows citizens and investors to benefit equally from opportunities in both Tanzania and Kenya,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of strengthening public–private partnerships to drive infrastructure development, mobilise capital, and support industrial growth.
Azizi urged Tanzanians not to fear competition from Kenyan businesses, while encouraging Kenyans to avoid negative perceptions about Tanzania, noting that healthy competition and mutual respect are essential for regional stability and progress.
He added that citizens of both countries should view each other as partners rather than rivals, arguing that deeper regional unity would enhance East Africa’s global competitiveness.
Azizi further highlighted the role of the private sector in improving livelihoods through increased production, job creation, and expanded market access.
He called for more joint ventures between Tanzanian and Kenyan companies to ensure broader benefits for farmers, traders, and manufacturers.
The conference was attended by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Ruto, both of whom reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties.
President Ruto expressed optimism that the two countries would sign new trade and investment agreements worth about 500 million US dollars, targeting key sectors such as energy, transport, ICT, and agriculture.
More than 200 business-to-business meetings were held during the conference, enabling entrepreneurs from both countries to engage directly and explore investment opportunities.
Taifa Group, the parent company of Taifa Gas, served as the main sponsor of the event, reflecting the growing role of the private sector in supporting regional economic integration.
Economic analysts note that such forums play a critical role in translating high-level political commitments into tangible opportunities for businesses and citizens.
Trade between Tanzania and Kenya continues to grow steadily, supported by improved infrastructure, reduced tariffs under the East African Community (EAC), and improved border management systems.
Kenya remains one of Tanzania’s key trading partners, exporting manufactured goods such as processed foods, cement, plastics, and machinery.
Tanzania, in turn, exports agricultural products including maize and rice, as well as minerals such as gold. This exchange supports livelihoods across sectors, from farming to transport and manufacturing.
Recent improvements, including one-stop border posts at Namanga Border Post and Holili–Taveta Border Post, have reduced delays and enhanced efficiency, making cross-border trade faster and more reliable.
Despite progress, challenges such as regulatory differences, non-tariff barriers, and occasional trade disputes continue to affect business operations. Authorities from both countries are working within the EAC framework to address these issues and improve the business climate.
In 2024, Kenya’s exports to Tanzania were valued at about 67.20 billion Kenyan shillings, while imports from Tanzania reached 58.72 billion shillings, reflecting a growing and relatively balanced trade relationship. Overall bilateral trade has now surpassed one billion US dollars.
Azizi’s proposal is seen as part of a broader push toward deeper economic integration, aimed at ensuring that growth translates into real benefits for citizens through job creation, expanded markets, and improved business conditions.
As East Africa continues to strengthen cooperation, stakeholders believe that closer collaboration between governments and the private sector will be essential in delivering inclusive and sustainable economic development.
