Dar es Salaam / Nairobi – Tanzania has sparked regional tensions after announcing a sweeping ban on foreign nationals operating in 15 small-scale business sectors a move aimed at protecting local livelihoods but which has drawn criticism from neighboring Kenya.
The new directive, issued by Trade Minister Selemani Jafo, bars foreigners from engaging in activities such as mobile money transfers, tour guiding, small-scale mining, on-farm crop buying, and running beauty salons, curio shops, and radio or TV stations.
Jafo said the government was acting to reserve informal sector opportunities for Tanzanians, amid growing frustration that foreigners particularly Chinese nationals were encroaching on trades traditionally held by locals.
“We’ve welcomed this decision because it protects the livelihoods of Tanzanian traders,” said Severine Mushi, head of the Kariakoo traders’ association, in a statement to The Citizen. Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam’s major commercial hub, saw protests last year over foreign competition and tax grievances.
Under the new rules, violators face fines, jail terms of up to six months, and the revocation of visas and work permits. Jafo added that the government hopes this restriction will encourage foreigners to focus on large-scale investment ventures instead.
However, the announcement has triggered a backlash in Kenya, with critics arguing the policy undermines the East African Community (EAC) framework, which promotes the free movement of people, goods, and services across its eight member states.
Analysts warn that the move could strain regional relations and complicate cross-border trade, especially as economic protectionism rises across parts of Africa…. BBCAfrica.com