The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has raised concern over growing regional instability, warning that disruptions in Tanzania and Sudan are putting East Africa’s economy and jobs at serious risk.
Speaking on NTV on Tuesday, KAM Chief Executive Officer Tobias Alando cited the internet shutdown in Tanzania during the country’s elections as a major economic setback. He noted that the blackout severely affected the telecommunications sector, disrupting essential services and causing ripple effects across various industries.
“The internet blackout affected traders, logistics operators, SMS services, and even petrol stations,” Alando explained. “Such disruptions cause significant economic losses and erode business confidence.”
He emphasized that regional stability is vital for sustained economic growth, especially for manufacturers and exporters who depend on the seamless movement of goods, people, and data across borders.
According to Alando, the African Union (AU) and East African Community (EAC) leaders must act swiftly to restore peace and address citizens’ grievances before tensions escalate further. “Leaders in the East African Community and across Africa must remember that they can be held accountable even after their terms end. Holding power does not grant the right to act without consequences,” he warned.
Kenya and Tanzania remain key trading partners, with strong business exchanges in agriculture and manufacturing. In 2024, Kenya’s exports to Tanzania stood at Ksh67.20 billion, while imports reached Ksh58.72 billion, narrowing the trade surplus by Ksh8.48 billion.
However, ongoing unrest in Tanzania has led to shortages of food, fuel, and cash, according to the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Protests erupted following last week’s general elections, in which President Samia Suluhu was declared the winner with 98 per cent of the vote — a result widely disputed by opposition groups and election observers.
Alando warned that such instability undermines investor confidence and could reverse the progress made in regional integration and economic cooperation across East Africa.
