NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 16 – Kenya and Tanzania have resolved travel restrictions that was set off on Tuesday when Nairobi declined to grant Air Tanzania cargo rights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
In retaliation, Tanzania said it will not allow Kenya Airways flights to Dar Es Salam, in what escalated a major diplomatic row.
But the Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authority on Tuesday said that Kenya had granted Air Tanzania 5th freedom traffic rights for all cargo services, a significant move towards collaboration.
Tanzania subsequently lifted its decision to ban Kenya Airways flights on the Dar-Nairobi route following discussions led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who had assured the public of a swift resolution within three days.
“I have this evening spoken to H.E. @JMakamba (MP), Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania, about the decision of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority to rescind the approvals for @KenyaAirways to operate passenger flights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam with effect from 22nd January 2024,” Mudavadi announced on social media.
Kenya’s Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, echoed this optimism and emphasized the importance of returning to normalcy in air travel between the two nations.
He also emphasized on the mutual benefits of a harmonious relationship, acknowledging Tanzania as a key economic partner and a neighbouring ally