EAC leaders now commit to regional integration for growth

Arusha. Regional Heads of Public Service and Ministers in charge of East African Community (EAC) Affairs from EAC Partner States have pledged decisive action to integrate regional policies into national frameworks.

Speaking during a two-day strategic dialogue held in Arusha under the theme; Coordination, Integration, Alignment, and Progress Tracking of EAC Initiatives, the leaders said the goal is to address regional challenges and unlock economic potential for sustainable development.

The event, organized by the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI) and the German Development Agency (GIZ), focused on overcoming obstacles to regional integration.

During discussions, leaders identified fragmented national policies as a major barrier, slowing down the implementation of EAC commitments.

They also pointed out the lack of effective engagement frameworks for Heads of Public Service, which affects alignment between national and regional priorities.

Inadequate human and financial resources within public institutions were also highlighted as significant challenges to integration efforts.

Director-General of ESAMI, Dr Peter Kiuluku, called for a robust monitoring mechanism to track the alignment of national commitments with regional goals. He emphasized that such a system would help ensure measurable progress and reinforce accountability across governance levels.

“There is a need to strengthen policy alignment, foster collaboration, and reinforce accountability measures,” said Dr Kiuluku.

“These efforts are essential for driving development that will benefit East African citizens.” Chairperson of the EAC Council of Ministers and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for EAC, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development, Ms Beatrice Askul Moe urged Public Service Heads to take leadership in ensuring the implementation of regional commitments.

“We must acknowledge that the pace of implementation has sometimes fallen short,” said Ms Moe. “Heads of Public Service must ensure compliance with commitments and hold agencies accountable.”

Uganda’s Minister for EAC Affairs, Ms Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, stressed that Public Service leaders should be well-versed in regional laws, as these become binding once passed.

"Member States must take a firm stance on their commitments,” she said. “Implementation of promises is key for true integration.”

EAC Secretary General, Ms Veronica Nduva reiterated the importance of integrating the regional agenda into national operations.

“Without integration, the EAC will continue to face challenges as some agendas meet competing national interests,” Ms Nduva said. “The lack of resources and delays in financial disbursements often leave commitments unimplemented.”

She also highlighted that developing a comprehensive policy framework for decision implementation would eliminate non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and positively impact regional trade.

The leaders concluded their discussions by reaffirming their commitment to enhancing regional coordination, streamlining resource mobilization, and achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the 6th EAC Development Strategy.

The event was attended by permanent secretaries, ambassadors, government representatives, and academics.