DODOMA, Tanzania — President William Ruto is expected to deliver a special address to the Tanzanian Parliament on May 5, 2026, as Kenya and Tanzania seek to deepen bilateral ties and regional cooperation.
The announcement was confirmed on Wednesday by Tanzania National Assembly Deputy Speaker Daniel Sillo during a parliamentary session in Dodoma.
A senior State House official in Nairobi also confirmed the planned address.
Sillo urged Tanzanian lawmakers to attend the sitting in large numbers, describing the event as significant for relations between the two East African neighbours.
“Honourable MPs, I would like to inform you that on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, His Excellency William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya, will address this House. The event will also be a State of the Nation address,” Sillo told the House.
Ruto’s speech is expected to focus on strengthening cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania in trade, regional integration, infrastructure, security, and economic development.
The address comes at a time when the East African Community (EAC) continues to push for closer political and economic ties among member states.
Kenya and Tanzania remain two of the region’s largest economies and key trading partners.
The two countries share strong historical, cultural, and economic links, although they have occasionally experienced diplomatic and trade disagreements over cross-border business regulations and the movement of goods.
The upcoming address is likely to underline the importance of maintaining stable diplomatic relations and enhancing collaboration under the EAC framework.
Ruto has, in recent years, positioned Kenya as a strong advocate for regional integration and intra-African trade.
Tanzania, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has also intensified efforts to improve regional diplomacy and economic partnerships across East Africa.
The Tanzanian Parliament address will mark one of the rare occasions a Kenyan Head of State formally addresses lawmakers in the neighbouring country, highlighting the strategic importance both governments attach to bilateral relations.
The visit is also expected to include diplomatic engagements with Tanzanian leaders and discussions on ongoing joint projects between Nairobi and Dodoma.
