The Nairobi Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria has pleaded with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu to reconsider the ban prohibiting foreigners from establishing and operating some small businesses in Tanzania.
According to Mosiria, the ban, which affects Kenyans was unfair and raised questions on regional integration, economic inclusivity, and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
“The recent directive by the Tanzanian government to ban foreigners from engaging in small-scale businesses such as hawking on the streets has stirred significant concern,” Mosirias stated.
Geoffrey Mosiria comments on Tanzania’s ban on foreign traders. Photo: Courtesy.
He went on to state that Tanzanians had been accommodated in the country, engaging in the very same businesses that were now being restricted in Tanzania.
Mosiria proposed a balanced approach in such an affair, where local interests were protected while still promoting fair competition, mutual respect, and regional economic harmony.
The ban that was announced on July 29, affected businesses in the mining, tourism, agriculture, environment, and technology sectors.
A foreigner who is found conducting these businesses would be liable to a fine of up to Tsh10 million (Ksh502,927) and a prison term not exceeding six months.
Tanzanian citizens found helping foreigners conduct such businesses will be convicted and slapped with a three-month prison sentence, in addition to a fine of Tsh5 million (Ksh251,463).
