President Jakaya Kikwete has reaffirmed Tanzania’s unwavering support to Kenya in the fight against terrorism in the region following last week’s attack at Westgate Shopping Mall in Nairobi, which left more than 60 people dead and hundreds others injured.
President Jakaya Kikwete signs the condolence book in remembrance of the innocent victims that perished following the terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, last Saturday. (Photo by Freddy Maro)
“We are together in this war and my country is ready to offer whatever kind of support you may need,” said Mr Kikwete after signing the condolence book at Kenya’s permanent mission at the United Nations in New York on Thursday.
Mr Kikwete condemned the attack and expressed his grief and anger following the deaths and wounding of innocent civilians and insisted that all culprits must be brought to book for their involvement in the heinous crime.
A statement issued in Dar es Salaam on Friday by the Directorate of Presidential Communications said President Kikwete and his entourage was received by Ambassador Koki Muli Grignon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Kenya to the UN.
“When the attack occurred, I was on my way from Canada to the US and I saw it on TV. I called President Uhuru Kenyatta and expressed my sadness and anger following the onslaught.
“I told President Kenyatta that Tanzania is ready to help in sharing ideas and resources to find a solution to this problem and called upon him and the people of Kenya to remain strong and united at this difficult moment.
Ambassador Grignon said: “On behalf of all staff of the Embassy of Kenya at the United Nations, I want to tell you that we feel so honoured by your visit here. You have given us motivation and morale. Together we are fighting to stop terrorism in our East African region. Your coming has actually taken us by surprise and has amazed everyone at the embassy. Thank you Mr President. “
Meanwhile, President Kikwete said pension funds will continue to contribute to the country’s development by supporting various projects in such a way that the government does not kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.
He also reassured the public that all pension funds were strong financially and well positioned to continue serving their customers.
Source Tanzania Daily News
