President William Ruto on Tuesday made history by becoming the first Kenyan head of state to address Tanzania’s Parliament, delivering a landmark speech that underscored unity and shared heritage between the two nations.

Ruto, who is on a two-day state visit to Tanzania, addressed the House in Dodoma a day after receiving full military honours from President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Dar es Salaam.

He walked into the chamber to applause, marking a historic moment as a Kenyan leader addressed Tanzania’s Parliament for the first time.

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The President opened his speech by thanking President Suluhu for the invitation and warm reception, setting a tone of friendship and mutual respect.

He invoked the legacy of founding leaders Julius Nyerere and Jomo Kenyatta, describing them as symbols of unity that transcend national boundaries.

Ruto told lawmakers that Kenya and Tanzania share more than a border, emphasising deep cultural, historical and social ties that bind the two nations.

He painted a vivid picture of the 800-kilometre border, the widespread use of Kiswahili and communities such as the Maasai and Kuria whose lives span both countries.

At one point, the President drew laughter with a Kiswahili anecdote before shifting to a more serious tone, urging leaders to ensure that policy does not disrupt what nature has made seamless.

He cited the migration of wildebeest between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara as a powerful symbol of natural unity that should be matched by cooperation between governments.

“Once again, I thank you, Your Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, the Right Honourable Speaker; and the distinguished Members of this House, for the honour of addressing this Parliament, and for the friendship that makes this partnership not only possible but enduring,” Ruto said.

The address marked a significant moment in Kenya-Tanzania relations, highlighting a renewed push for closer ties and regional cooperation.