MEMBERS of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) have praised Tanzania’s proactive approach to resolving border conflicts and removing trade barriers with other member states of the East African Community (EAC).

PAP representatives made the observation during a recent visit to the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) in Namanga, Longido District in Arusha Region.

According to the members, Tanzania’s progress in eliminating trade restrictions is vital for advancing the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Prof Margaret Kamar, head of PAP Committee on Trade, Customs and Immigration, said that Tanzania has been selected as one of eight pilot countries for the initial implementation of free trade alongside Rwanda, Ghana, Mauritius, Cameroon and Tunisia.

The purpose of the visit, she explained, was to assess service delivery at various border points, including Namanga.

After observing operations firsthand, PAP members were impressed with Tanzania’s commitment to enhancing border security, particularly through the use of advanced inspection technology for goods being imported and exported.

“The central agenda of PAP is to ensure that free trade is strengthened at border regions, and we are pleased to witness the efficient inspection processes at Namanga,” she said. 

“We are here to evaluate how Tanzania implements free trade, especially for goods entering from EAC countries and the regulation of imports. We are satisfied with the quality of service at this border, which connects Kenya and Tanzania.” 

Wavel Woodcock, PAP member from Seychelles, commended Tanzania for its robust border infrastructure and efforts to improve services at border points within the EAC free trade region.

Anatropia Theonest, Special Seats MP from Tanzania and member of PAP Committee on Trade, Customs and Immigration, commended the significant progress made by Tanzania.

She shared that updates from border officials highlighted streamlined cargo processing for goods entering and transiting to other countries.

Longido District Commissioner Salum Kali said that as trade agreements among EAC member states strengthen, businesses will benefit from the removal of transportation barriers, enabling quick inspections and facilitating smooth transit for trucks using specialised equipment at border areas.