The price of maize has dropped by 40 percent as cheap imports from Tanzania have flooded the market (see P30).
Rift Valley governors have made it a key issue to be resolved before they can pledge their support to Deputy President William Ruto for next year's presidential election.
President Kenyatta rightly allowed Tanzania maize imports during President Samia Suluhu's state visit to Kenya in early May. Tanzania also now plans to build a natural gas pipeline to Mombasa to supply Kenya. Tanzanian businessmen will also automatically receive work permits to operate in Kenya.
From a Tanzanian point of view, Suluhu's visit to Kenya was an unqualified success. But Kenya is yet to reap the benefits.
Tanzania has probably been the most obstructive member of the East African Community. In a common market there is free movement of people, goods and labour. There will be winners and losers but overall the regional economy will expand.
It cannot be all pain and no gain for Kenya. It is time for Tanzania to open up its economy. President Kenyatta should pay a state visit to Tanzania and secure similar concessions to those that Suluhu secured here last month.
Quote of the day: "I have conquered an empire but I have not been able to conquer myself."
Peter the Great
The Russian emperor was born on June 9, 1672
