NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 3 – President Mwai Kibaki says small African economies must integrate to attract investments to the region and give impetus to intra-Africa trade.
During a meeting with the Tanzanian Prime Minister Mizengo Peter Pinda at Harambee House, President Kibaki gave the example of increased trade between Kenya and Tanzania because through the East African Community (EAC).
“A strong E.A. community is a big attraction to investors. African states must also trade among themselves more aggressively instead of relying on traditional channels of trade with Europe,” said the President.
Kenya is today the second largest investor in Tanzania with an investment portfolio of Sh160 billion.
“Our people are making these investments because of the great faith they have in Tanzania and the larger East African Community. We will continue to encourage our business people to invest in your country and we welcome the people of Tanzania to make their investments in Kenya,” President Kibaki told the Tanzanian Premier.
The Head of State said East African countries had a lot to share in areas of agriculture, environmental conservation, water and energy.
The Tanzanian Prime Minister is in the country for an official visit.
Prime Minister Pinda was accompanied by Tanzanian Minister for East African Cooperation Dr. Diodorus Kamala, the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Kenya. Nyasugara Kadege and Agriculture, Food Security and Co-operatives Permanent Secretary Mohammed Muya.
Present during the meeting were Foreign Affairs Minister Moses Wetangula, Internal Security Minister Prof. George Saitoti, Fisheries Minister Paul Otuoma, Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura and Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Thuita Mwangi.
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