Magufuli gets full honours on his first state visit to Kenya

By PSCU

Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli arrived in the country Monday morning for a two-day state visit.

On his historic first visit to Kenya as Head of State, President Magufuli – who was formally received by his host President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House, Nairobi – was accorded full military honours complete with a 21-gun salute.

The elaborate state reception included a colourful guard of honour mounted by a detachment of the Kenya Air Force, with the military band playing the national anthems of Kenya, Tanzania and that of the East African Community.

The Tanzanian leader began his visit by laying a wreath at the mausoleum of Kenya’s founding father, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, before proceeding to State House for the formal reception shortly after 11.00 am.

Deputy President William Ruto, Cabinet Secretaries, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Samson Mwathethe and other senior Government officials were also present at State House to receive President Magufuli.

Thereafter, the Tanzanian leader signed the distinguished visitors’ book, after which President Kenyatta invited him into his office for tête-à-tête.

The two leaders will later lead their delegations in bilateral talks at State House.

After the bilateral talks, President Kenyatta and President Magufuli will hold a joint press briefing.

President Magufuli’s visit gives the two neighbouring countries a chance to renew and deepen their partnership in a number of fields.

The two Heads of Government will discuss a wide range of issues of mutual interest at the bilateral and regional level.