News

Kenya and Tanzania Tighten Border Security Ahead of Planned Demonstrations

Authorities in Kenya and Tanzania have implemented enhanced security protocols along their shared border to prevent cross-border participation in demonstrations scheduled to coincide with Tanzania’s Independence Day celebrations.

ALSO READ: Governor Nassir Honors Deputy Thoya on Birthday, Praises Partnership

Andrew Mwiti, Deputy Commissioner for Oloililai sub-county, announced the heightened measures during a neighbourhood security forum held in Longido District, Arusha, on Monday. The official made clear that Kenyan authorities would actively intercept any nationals attempting to cross into Tanzania with intentions to participate in what officials have classified as unauthorized gatherings.

“Our preparedness extends to identifying and stopping individuals who may seek to provoke unrest or take part in these planned assemblies,” Mwiti declared at the meeting. “These demonstrations lack legal authorization, and we are positioned to enforce this accordingly.”

The security collaboration between the two East African nations comes as activist groups and youth organizations had called for public demonstrations on December 9, coinciding with Tanzania’s Independence Day. The planned protests aimed to demand accountability for fatalities allegedly occurring during electoral disturbances on October 29.

Arusha Provincial Commissioner Amos Gabriel Makalla provided assurances that Tanzanian authorities remain focused on preserving stability throughout the region. He emphasized that the government’s priority is enabling citizens to pursue their daily economic activities and social engagements without interruption.

Makalla specifically addressed concerns about the Namanga border crossing, stating that operations would continue normally to facilitate trade and commerce between the neighboring countries. The border post serves as a vital economic link for businesses and communities on both sides.

The October 29 incidents referenced by protest organizers saw allegations from President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration suggesting that some Kenyan nationals had participated in the unrest. This prompted diplomatic discussions and commitments from Kenya’s government to prevent its citizens from engaging in Tanzania’s internal political affairs.

In response to the planned demonstrations, President Suluhu’s administration took the unprecedented step of canceling official Independence Day festivities. Through a statement delivered by Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba on Monday, the government instructed citizens to observe the national holiday from their residences.

“Citizens without pressing obligations on December 9 are advised to utilize the day for rest and celebrate Independence Day from home,” the directive stated.

By midday Tuesday, urban centers throughout Tanzania displayed unusually quiet streets as law enforcement issued warnings that individuals found in public spaces without legitimate purpose would face enforcement action.

The joint security measures represent a significant coordination effort between the two nations, which share extensive cultural and economic ties despite occasional diplomatic tensions. The Namanga border, located approximately 110 kilometers from Nairobi and 80 kilometers from Arusha, typically processes thousands of travelers and commercial vehicles daily.

Regional analysts note that the security cooperation demonstrates both governments’ commitment to maintaining stability in the East African Community, even as questions about civil liberties and protest rights continue to generate debate across the region.

The situation remains under close observation by international human rights organizations, who have called for respect for peaceful assembly while urging protesters to operate within legal frameworks.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no major incidents had been reported along the Kenya-Tanzania border, and security forces maintained visible presence at key crossing points.