Livestock traders operating at the Tanzania-Kenya border in Namanga have called on the government to introduce reforms that would make Tanzania's livestock markets more competitive and reduce the need to sell animals across the border.
The appeal was made during a meeting between the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries (Livestock), Dr Fabian Madele, and traders at the Namanga livestock market on July 20, 2026.
The traders urged the ministry to create a more enabling policy and regulatory environment that would encourage Kenyan buyers to purchase livestock directly from Tanzania instead of forcing local traders to transport animals into Kenya.
They argued that strengthening the Namanga livestock auction market would lower transport costs, improve returns for livestock keepers and increase government revenue through locally conducted transactions.
"If this market is improved and supported by favourable policies, Kenyan buyers can come to purchase livestock here instead of us taking our goats across the border. That would reduce transport costs and ensure the government collects more revenue from the trade," one trader said during the meeting.
Responding to the concerns, Dr Madele said the ministry would engage technical experts to assess the issues raised and identify appropriate policy and operational solutions.
He also pledged to hold further consultations with traders to develop practical interventions that address the challenges facing cross-border livestock trade.
He noted that while international trade remains important, it should deliver mutual benefits to both Tanzania and Kenya.
"We cannot stop international trade, but it must be conducted in a way that benefits both sides. As a government, we have a responsibility to ensure livestock trade at this border is well organised and generates value for livestock keepers as well as for the country," Dr Madele said.
He also urged traders to avoid livestock smuggling, stressing that revenue generated through formal trade supports the provision of public services, including education, water supply and road infrastructure.
Namanga is one of Tanzania's busiest livestock trading points, serving pastoral communities in northern Tanzania and attracting buyers from neighbouring Kenya.
The government views the border market as strategically important for expanding formal livestock trade, improving market access and boosting revenue collection.
