January 15, 2024
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania | In a move that has raised eyebrows across East Africa, the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has announced the suspension of all Kenya Airways (KQ) passenger flights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, effective January 22, 2024. The decision comes as a response to Kenya’s recent denial of cargo flight approvals for Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) between Nairobi and third countries.
The public notice issued by Mamza S. Johari, the Director General of TCAA, underscores Tanzania’s dissatisfaction with Kenya’s refusal to grant cargo flight operations for ATCL, breaching Section 4 of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Air Services signed between the two nations in 2016. This section emphasizes reciprocal treatment for airlines of both countries.
Director General Hamza S. Johari highlighted the decision’s grounding principle: “This decision is based on the principle of reciprocity, following the refusal by the Kenyan authorities to grant approval for ATCL’s cargo flights despite the clear provisions of the MoU.”
Tanzania emphasized its commitment to international aviation regulations and bilateral agreements, pledging to adhere to the principles of the Chicago Convention 1944 and the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between States.
This development follows a pattern of diplomatic tensions in the region. Kenya is currently in a dispute with Uganda over the use of Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) infrastructure for transporting refined petroleum products from Mombasa port to Uganda. The matter has escalated to the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), with Uganda accusing Kenya of violating the East African Community treaty.
Burundi recently closed its borders with Rwanda, accusing its neighbor of supporting rebel attacks. Rwanda responded, expressing regret over the unilateral border closure. This incident brings to light the challenges faced by the East African Community in achieving seamless integration, as member states impose trade barriers affecting regional cooperation.
As diplomatic spats unfold, scholars argue that the full potential of the East African Community integration remains hindered by trade barriers. The current situations highlight the need for collaborative efforts and adherence to agreements to foster regional stability and prosperity.
