EA integration is achievable, but requires unity

As the 3rd session of the 5th East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) opens in Kampala, it is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a region and the challenges we must address to advance the integration of the East African Community (EAC). agendas.

Uganda, a proud member of the EAC, warmly welcomed Eala members and His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni called for unity. It is also pertinent to recognize the critical role that President Museveni played in achieving regional integration. His support for the EAC and Eala since their inception in 2001 reflects the confidence he places in the institutions that shape our common destiny.

The presence of Eala members in Kampala embodies the spirit of unity that defines the aspirations of our region. Today we are realizing the vision of our forefathers by seeking deeper cooperation through the four pillars of EAC integration: Customs Union, Monetary Union, Common Market and Political Federation.

Undoubtedly, the EAC has achieved outstanding success. The implementation of the Common Market Protocol facilitated the free movement of goods and services. We now have 13 one-stop border centers and have introduced the East African passport, promoting seamless mobility, something we should all be proud of. These achievements are a testament to Eala’s efforts to advocate for laws aimed at reducing trade barriers and facilitating cross-border movement.

However, our journey is far from over. The full promises of the Common Market Protocol remain unfulfilled. Some member states have not yet implemented agreements, for example on the recognition of machine-readable national identity cards for border crossings. These inconsistencies impede the free movement that the protocol guarantees and undermine trust between partner states.

To build a united YOU, we must renew our commitment to eliminating trade barriers and promoting genuine cooperation. Unity between partner countries is important. When we come together, we unlock our potential to solve common problems and advance regional integration. Disagreements are inevitable, but we must confront them openly. Peace and security are the cornerstones of prosperity and political federation. Without them, our economic ambitions will fail. Political conflicts are tearing apart nations in other countries; we cannot allow such divisions to take root in East Africa. If we want a prosperous region, we must strive for peace and cooperation, otherwise we risk sliding backwards under external influences.

As we enter this legislative session, Ela has the opportunity to pass strategic legislation that will shape the future of the region. The Standardization, Accreditation and Conformity Assessment Bills and the Anti-Female Genital Mutilation Bill reflect the Assembly’s commitment to addressing pressing regional issues. However, passing these laws is not enough—member states must actively implement and enforce them for them to have a meaningful impact.

The Ugandan Parliament stands ready to support Eala’s efforts to build a stable, competitive and sustainable EAC. Regional integration is not just a political ideal, it is a practical necessity to solve our common problems. A united East Africa can be a force for good, unlocking economic potential and improving the quality of life for all citizens.

Ultimately, the success of all this depends on the commitment of all members to fulfill their constitutional mandate. This is a defining moment for Ela and I am optimistic that their work will bring the region closer to realizing its integration goals. Let us seize this opportunity to strengthen cooperation, overcome challenges and advance the dream of a united East Africa.

Through unity, peace and determination, our shared vision of a prosperous future can become a reality.

Anita Annette Among, Speaker of Parliament