BAN OF KQ FLIGHTS TO TANZANIA A SIGN OF DIPLOMATIC ROW

The KQ saga started when the Ministry of Tourism of Kenya had barred Tanzanian registered vehicles from accessing JKIA while the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority responded by reduced the frequency of Kenya Airways flights operating between Kenya and Tanzanian airports. The effect of reduction of Kenya Airways (KQ) flight from 42 to 14 every week was a clear indication that member states of the East African Community (EAC) have deep-rooted differences despite constant pledges of co-operation. When they meet, they shake hands and smile, but inside them they have deep-rooted animosity. To resolve the KQ issue, president (Kikwete and Uhuru) met on Saturday and struck the deal in the Namibian capital Windhoek. The meeting was held under a very cordial atmosphere, with the two Heads of State emphasizing the need to continue to discuss openly issues affecting the brotherly and long-standing bilateral relationship that exists between Tanzania and Kenya. Tanzanians knew they will loose less when it comes to the worst, while Kenya was not thinking a head before they ambushed Tanzanians with demands. There are diplomatic processes to handle such cases and these two nations need to learn how to co-exist with one another.

By Colletor Adoyo