The Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asked regional leaders to emulate Kenya in rejecting boundaries defined by the colonialists and allow a borderless Africa to realize the African Continent Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The DP said that removal of trade barriers will enhance seamless trade and other forms of interaction without boundaries hence Mutual benefit of our sisterhood.
“We reject being defined by the boundaries of colonists. That is why Kenya has removed visa requirements for Africans visiting our Nation. We want to grow beyond the borders of our country because there is more to gain in breaking boundary barriers than closed -door policies.” he said.
Gachagua spoke today at Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar during the celebrations of the 60th Anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution.
Zanzibar Revolution is a public holiday in Tanzania observed on January 12th.
The day marks the 1964 revolution that overthrew the Sultan following independence from Britain.
To boost and nourish the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement , Gachagua said that Visa Free regime within African Countries will significantly boost intra-Africa trade, accessibility of the markets thus enabling balance of trade.
” A Visa Free Regime is also an enabler to the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, which Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania are party to. Indeed, Tanzania is our leading export market, but we can do more in balancing trade.” He added.
He expressed optimism in the borderless Africa initiative in ensuring free flow of socio economic activities in spurring growth particularly when East Africa Countries prepare for the African Cup of Nations, therefore strengthening joint exploitation of resources for development.
Gachagua also commended Tanzania for the bilateral relations that he says have enhanced cooperation on the already existing frameworks under the East African Community.
” Through Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu, we continue deepening cooperation and collaboration in various fronts for socio-economic transformation of our people.” Gachagua noted.
He was accompanied by delegate from Kenya including MPs Owen Baya (Kilifi North) Michael Muchira (Ol Jororok), Letipila Eli (Samburu North), Rachel Nyamai (Kitui South), Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), Jane Njeri (Kirinyaga County MP) and Cynthia Muge (Nandi County MP).
