The political tension following Tanzania’s 2025 general election is taking a toll on regional commerce, with Kenyan traders reporting severe disruptions in cross-border trade due to heightened security restrictions.
According to Business Insider Africa, increased border control measures by Tanzanian authorities have significantly slowed trade activities at key entry points such as the Taveta-Holili crossing.
Kenyan business owners and transport operators claim that security agents now impose arbitrary checks and movement limits, making trade with Tanzania increasingly difficult.
A report by Tuko Kenya revealed that Kenyan traders face punitive restrictions from Tanzanian law enforcement, while Tanzanian traders continue to operate freely within Kenya.
The chairperson of the Boda Boda Riders Association, Simon Mafusa, told The Standard that “cross-border trade has stalled due to the heavy presence of Tanzanian soldiers,” adding that Kenyan riders are prohibited from crossing into towns like Moshi and Himo after 6 p.m.
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The unrest stems from Tanzania’s disputed October 29 presidential election, in which incumbent Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 97.66% of the vote under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.
Opposition groups and international observers have denounced the results, citing widespread irregularities and a lack of transparency.
Following the announcement, violent protests erupted in major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza, leading to numerous casualties.
Human rights groups accused Tanzanian security forces of using live ammunition and tear gas against demonstrators.
Neighboring Kenya has criticized both the Tanzanian government’s handling of the unrest and the East African Community’s (EAC) silence on the crisis.
Adding to the turmoil, Tanzania reportedly experienced a week-long internet shutdown during the elections, which cost its economy approximately $238 million (TSh560 billion), based on data from the NetBlocks Cost of Shutdown Tool (COST).
Analysts warn that such disruptions threaten investor confidence and signal a troubling trend of digital restrictions during African election seasons.
Tanzania’s recent instability marks a departure from its long-standing reputation as one of East Africa’s most stable nations.
The evolving situation continues to strain bilateral relations and economic cooperation with Kenya, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to political and digital disruptions.
