Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni recently embarked on a diplomatic mission to Zanzibar, where he engaged in crucial discussions with Presidents Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania) and William Samoei Ruto (Kenya).
The focal point of their meeting revolved around the imperative need for the East African Community (EAC) to achieve a political federation, heralding the potential for enhanced economic prosperity and strategic security across the region.
During their time together, Presidents Museveni, Suluhu, and Ruto deliberated extensively on the transformative benefits that would ensue from the establishment of a political federation within the EAC. They underscored the pivotal role such a union would play in creating a larger market, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the strategic security of member states.
The EAC was originally established in 1967, but it collapsed in 1977 due to political differences among member states. However, it was revived in 1999 with the signing of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, and it became fully operational in 2000.
Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania are the original founding members of the bloc which has now expanded to eight countries.
President Museveni reiterated his unwavering commitment to the vision of a politically integrated East African Community, emphasizing that it represents a paramount step towards realizing the collective aspirations of the region’s citizens. He highlighted the potential for synergistic collaboration among member states to harness their combined resources and strengths effectively.
They also delved into the practical steps necessary to advance the agenda of political federation within the EAC. President Museveni emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, cooperation, and consensus-building among member states to overcome any challenges and expedite the realization of this ambitious objective.
Suluhu Hassan and Ruto echoed President Museveni’s sentiments, affirming their respective countries’ commitment to the ideals of regional integration and cooperation.
