A university student leader-turned-social commentator has sparked fresh debate over Kenya’s relationship with Tanzania—questioning whether the neighbour to the south is truly a friend or just a formality.
Kirongosi, a former chairmanship aspirant at the University of Embu Students Association (UESA), used his X account (formerly Twitter) to voice what many Kenyans have felt for years but rarely say out loud.
“I’ve never seen any real benefit from our ties with Tanzania,” he posted. “They’ve always kept us at arm’s length. Maybe it’s time we did the same—like we do with countries such as Korea or Madagascar.”
His comments have gone viral, and they’re resonating with a population growing weary of what feels like a one-sided relationship.
Trade Barriers and Regional Cold Shoulders
Though Kenya and Tanzania are both members of the East African Community, their relationship has often been more ceremonial than cooperative.
Under the late President John Magufuli, Tanzania pursued a stricter, more inward-looking economic policy. Kenyan traders frequently faced hurdles—goods blocked at borders, sudden changes to tariffs, and regulatory surprises.
“It wasn’t just paperwork,” said a Kenyan exporter based in Namanga. “It was like we were being punished for doing business.”
Even after Magufuli’s passing in 2021, trade tensions haven’t fully eased. Kenyan manufacturers still report difficulties entering the Tanzanian market, particularly in agriculture and processed foods.
A Bruised Brotherhood
What stings more than the trade friction is the perceived emotional distance. Many Kenyans believe Tanzania doesn’t treat the relationship as one between equals.
“The brotherhood has become a one-way street,” said Kirongosi in a follow-up post. “We need to be honest about who’s showing up and who’s shutting the door.”
The issue of the Maasai evictions in northern Tanzania has also added fuel to the fire. In 2022, the Tanzanian government forcefully relocated Maasai families from Ngorongoro to make way for conservation projects. International watchdogs condemned the move. Kenyans, who share deep cultural ties with the Maasai, were outraged.
“It was heartbreaking,” said Miriam Wambua, a human rights advocate. “This wasn’t just a Tanzanian issue—it touched something deeply personal for many of us.”
Turning Toward Uganda
In contrast, Kenya’s relationship with Uganda is widely viewed as more productive and balanced.
“Uganda is like our economic carburettor,” said Kirongosi, referring to Uganda’s vital role in keeping regional trade flowing. The phrase quickly trended online.
Uganda relies on Kenya’s ports to reach the world. In turn, Kenya enjoys steady trade and political goodwill from its western neighbour. Together, the two countries have collaborated on infrastructure, energy, and transport projects—often with fewer public clashes.
“Uganda has been consistent and cooperative,” said economist David Mutua. “They don’t play political games with trade.”
Reassessing Neighborhood Friendships
The tone of the conversation is clear: Kenya is ready to re-evaluate. Voices like Kirongosi’s, once confined to campus debates, are now shaping national discourse.
“We should treat each neighbour according to how they treat us,” he concluded. “Friendship doesn’t mean playing the fool.”
While government officials have not directly responded to the viral remarks, analysts believe the sentiment could influence future diplomatic decisions. Kenya is under no obligation to tolerate unequal treatment—especially when stronger, more reciprocal ties exist elsewhere.
In a region where unity is often prized, the question being asked now is whether all unity is worth the price.
