The Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the East African Business Council (EABC) and the East African Development Bank (EADB) are jointly organizing the Academia-Public-Private Partnership Forum and Exhibitions 2016, which will be held under the theme “Quality Education, Research and Innovation as Drivers of New Economies in the EAC”. The Forum, which will be hosted by the Aga Khan University, an IUCEA member university, is expected to demonstrate some of the practical outputs emanating from research and innovation in the region, in the form of innovative products and services to drive the new economies, focusing on ICT, tourism, agro-industry, financial services, and oil and gas. Other discussions will focus on the establishment of centres of excellence in East Africa, including the Eastern and Southern Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence (ACE II) project (supported by the World Bank), East Africa’s Centres of Excellence for Skills and Tertiary Education in Biomedical Sciences (supported by African Development Bank), and the proposed centres of excellence in humanities and social sciences (supported by IUCEA). Finally, there will be a session on the implications of the declaration of East Africa as a Common Higher education Area.
Running parallel with the Forum will be exhibitions, that are intended to enable the academia, the public and the private sectors to display the practical aspects of their operations, products, services and achievements as a way of enhancing linkages between the academia, the public and the private sectors in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship development in the region.
Call for Participation in the Exhibitions
Higher education institutions, private sector institutions, and public institutions are hereby invited to participate in the Exhibitions. Participation in the Exhibitions will be an excellent opportunity to showcase institutional profiles, services, and products to various stakeholders, including the academia, the private sector, and the general public. The exhibitions will also provide the opportunity for the exhibitors to interact with the best and most ambitious talents in the private sector and academia, for the eventual productive engagement between these complimentary systems.
Dates and Venue for the Exhibitions
The 2016 Forum and Exhibitions will be held on October 20-21 2016 at the Diamond Jubilee Hall, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The decision to host the Forum at the university is to encourage participation of academic and non-academic staff, students and the general public.
Participants Expected to Attend the Exhibitions
a) Those who will already be participating in the Forum, namely:
The private sector fraternity in East Africa and beyond - business leaders and employers (manufacturers, bankers, transporters, telecommunication providers, venture capitalists); SMEs; etc.
The academic and research fraternity in East Africa and beyond – education managers and administrators, including vice-chancellors, rectors, principals, provosts, registrars, deans, directors, and professors from higher education/research institutions across East Africa
Policy makers and government officials in East Africa
The media
b) Others expected to attend the exhibitions (to sample available opportunities) will include:
Students, i.e. current and prospective Alumni
Prospective candidates for higher education institutions
Leaders of higher education placement agencies
Parents
Invited groups and the general public
Potential buyers and customers of products and services
Provisions to Exhibitors
a) 3 m x 3 m exhibition stand with name, lighting, power and internet points at the exhibition section next to the venue of the Forum (Additional stands will be available on request but at a cost of USD 200)
b) Exhibition furniture, including one table and two chairs
c) One page profile in the official forum catalogue (each exhibitor to submit)
d) Visit by the Guest of Honor
e) Visit by more than 500 persons including Forum participants and the general public
f) Media coverage
Registration Fee for Participation
Each participating IUCEA member higher education institutions and members of the EABC and EADB will be provided with one free booth. If there is an institution that requires more space for exhibition, kindly let the organizers know in advance (this will cost US$ 200 per extra exhibition booth/stand). Maximum 2 participants per institution will be supported with teas and lunch.
Participation for non-members of IUCEA, EABC and EADB will be charged at US$ 500 per exhibition booth/stand.
Deadline for submission of intention to participate in the Exhibitions
Those intending to participate in the Exhibitions should register at www.iucea.org/forum by 30th September, 2016.
The officials from the Departments of Trade, Customs and Infrastructure of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) led by Transport Facilitation and Policy Expert, Mr. Appiah Christian and Trademark East Africa led by Director General, David Stanton today paid a working visit to the EAC Headquarters and held discussions with the Secretary General of the East African Community, Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko and other EAC Senior officials.
The purpose of their visit was to gain insight on major developments realized as well as challenges experienced within the EAC especially on areas of Trade and Customs, Investment, and infrastructure as well as sharing experience of the same from ECOWAS.
In his welcoming remarks, the Secretary General hailed the good relationship between EAC and ECOWAS as well as the increasing opportunities for inter-regional trade brought about by the establishment of regional economic communities (RECs) in Africa.
Amb. Mfumukeko, emphasised the increasing collaboration between the EAC and ECOWAS. He said the EAC was keen on what ECOWAS has attained in the area of financial integration and movements of people.
Noting the establishment of a tripartite Free Trade Area (FTA) between the East African Community (EAC), South African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Secretary General said he looked forward to the FTA linking up with ECOWAS and other RECs to form an African Continental FTA (CFTA).
Accompanying the Secretary General, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Planning and Infrastructure, Dr Enos Bukuku, briefed the ECOWAS delegation on the major developments taking place in the integration process, notably the operationalization of the EAC Customs Union especially on the Single Customs Territory and status of implementation of the infrastructure projects going on in the region.
Dr Bukuku informed the delegation that the EAC region was undertaking ambitious regional infrastructure development programme in roads, railways, telecommunications and civil aviation. He hailed the Trademark East Africa for their support to some of the projects particularly One Stop Border Post (OSPB) and the Establishment of Single Customs Territory.
The EAC official informed the delegation that EAC is a people-centered community and the involvement of the private sector, women and youth entrepreneurs, as well as ordinary citizens of East Africa in the integration agenda is critical.
On his part, the leader of delegation from ECOWAS, Mr. Appiah Christian, thanked his host for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to them and commended the EAC Secretariat for the enormous work done that has led to important milestones in the integration process.
Speaking on the ECOWAS administrative structure, Mr Appiah informed the EAC team that in January 2007, the Secretariat of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with its headquarters in Abuja was transformed into a Commission headed by a President, assisted by a Vice President and Commissioners.
By becoming a Commission with enhanced powers and Commissioners in charge of smaller and clearly defined sectors, the ECOWAS Secretariat has more impact and become more visible in Member States, asserted Mr. Appiah Christian.
He elaborated a number of projects and programmes under ECOWAS Vision 2020 which focus on making EACOWAS more closer to the people than ever before.
The Director General of Trademark East Africa, Mr. David Stanton said that Trademark was very happy with the relationship with EAC. ‘’I am looking forward to a strong partnership in the development of the regional bloc and facilitating more regional bloc study visits in future”.
Media Registration/Accreditation is at TIS/Maelezo
The 17th Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the Summit of the EAC Heads of State is taking place on 8th September 2016 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The 17th Extra-Ordinary Summit will be considering the EAC Council of Ministers Report on EU-EAC Economic Partnership Agreement; His Excellency President Mkapa’s Report on the Inter-Burundi Dialogue; Council Report on matters relating to the Republic of South Sudan; and swearing in of the new Deputy Secretary General from the Republic of Rwanda.
Media Alert
All Local and Foreign Journalists intending to cover the 17th Extra-Ordinary Summit are alerted that the Accreditation Process will commence from the afternoon of Tuesday 6th September 2016 at the Maelezo offices (Tanzania Information Services-TIS) located on the 9th Floor of the Golden Jubilee Towers on Ohio Street in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The Republic of South Sudan today deposited the instrument of ratification on the Accession to the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community to the Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC) Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
Depositing the instrument of ratification with the Secretary General of the East African Community means the Republic of South Sudan is now a new family member of the East African Community with full and equal rights, obligations and privileges.
‘’I would, therefore, like to seize this opportunity to commend President Salva Kiir, the Government and the entire people of the Republic of South Sudan for their tireless efforts and commitment that enabled them to achieve this important milestone”, the Secretary General said at a short ceremony attended by the Chair of the EAC Council of Ministers and Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Amb. Dr. Augustine Mahiga; Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of East African Community, Labour and Social Protection, Hon. Phyllis Kandie; Burundi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Alain Aime Nyamitwe, and the one in the Office of the President responsible for EAC Affairs, Hon. Leontine Nzeyimana; Permanent Secretaries/ Principal Secretaries from Partner States, EAC Deputy Secretaries Generals, Counsel to the Community and members of media.
In addition, on the Republic of South Sudan were Secretary General, South Sudan EAC Secretariat, Mou Mou Athian Kuol, South Sudan Ambassador to Tanzania, Mariano Deng Ngor, Director of East African Community, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Agnes Oswaha and Legal Counsel, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Juba, South Sudan, Lawrence Loro Kamilo.
Amb. Mfumukeko disclosed that now that South Sudan have taken a step further, the Secretariat will seek guidance from the Council of Ministers on developing a detailed roadmap for integrating the Republic of South Sudan into the ongoing EAC projects and programmes.“We shall be informing the Leardership in Juba of every step we shall be taking in this regard”.
The EAC Chief called upon the media to fully participate in integrating the Republic of South Sudan in the EAC by reporting objectively on the issues at hand. He said EAC attaches great importance to the role of the Media in promoting awareness, discourse and involvement of the broad range of stakeholders in the East African regional integration process.
The EAC Secretary General also reiterated to both national, regional and International media on their role to get the region and the new Partner State to embrace regional integration with passion, dedication and commitment for the benefit of the present and future generations of the Community.
On his part, the Presidential Envoy of the Republic of South Sudan, H. E. Hon. Aggrey Tisa Sabuni said membership in EAC for Republic of South Sudan will henceforth mean that the country will never be the same again. “The EAC integration process is important for South Sudan. Currently, the EAC is the most advanced Regional bloc on the African Continent”.
He noted that South Sudan’s membership in the EAC is likely to provide concrete benefits to the country and the region as a whole, adding that “deep regional integration programmes that South Sudan shall soon undertake are likely to enhance overall EAC competitiveness which will lead to higher economic growth, employment creation and poverty reduction”.
Kenya’s “King” David Rudisha, 800 metres ace, Javelin champion, Julius “ Mr You Tube Man” Yego and his compatriots as well as Burundi’s 800 metres women’s track star, Francine Niyonsaba, were feted in the regional Assembly for their exemplary performance at the recently ended Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Late yesterday, EALA passed a Resolution as it adjourned its Sitting sine die, congratulating African and especially, East African Medal Winners in the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in August 2016.
The motion for the Resolution was presented to the House by Hon Chis Opoka on behalf of the mover, Hon Saoli Ole Nkanae.
According to the mover, several gallant sons and daughters of Africa participated in the Olympics bringing honour and pride to the continent: They include Van Niekerk-400 Metres (South Africa), Boniface Mucheru -400 Metres (Kenya), Caster Semenya-800 Metres -Women (South Africa), Francine Niyonsaba – 800 Metres Women (Burundi), David Rudisha- 800 Metres Kenya), Faith Kipiyego– 1500 Metres Women (Kenya), Dibaba- 1500 Metres, Women (Ethiopia), Conseslus Kipruto-3000 Men (Kenya), Taofiq Makhloufu- 1500 Metres Men (Algeria), Vivian Cheruiyiot – 5000 Metres Women (Kenya), Jemima Sumgong- Marathon/Women (Kenya), Eliud Kipchoge – Marathon/Men (Kenya), and Feyisa Lilesa – Marathon /Men (Ethiopia).
However, the Resolution specifically lauds the East African athletes including, Faith Kipiyego who bagged gold in the 1500 Metres, women, Conseslus Kipruto, another Gold winner in 3000 Metres, and Vivian Cheruiyot, who also won the coveted medal in 5000 Metres, Women. Others are Marathon gold winner for Women, Jemima Sumgong, Eliud Kipchoge, gold (Marathon/Men) and Boniface Mucheru who won silver in the 400Metres, final).
Hon Joseph Kiangoi said the accolades brought to fore the fact that Africa is a continent of achievers.
“The continent’s talent is now been recognised, Mr Speaker,” he said, adding that western nations and other countries continued to lure African sports men and women to consider becoming their nationals.
He called for the need of development of high quality training grounds in high attitude areas to ensure east Africans are well trained. “We also need sports academies in place,” the legislator said.
The MP paid special tribute to the late Isaiah Kiplagat, President of Athletics Kenya. “He made sports and specifically athletics in Kenya what it is today”, Hon Kiangoi added. The late Kiplagat who died on February 24th August, 2016, is to be interred in Kapsaret on Friday, September 2, 2016.
Hon Emerence Bucumi said the region was proud to see athletes from the region’s soil win the various disciplines. Hon Bucumi alluded to Article 119 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the EAC on the promotion of culture and sports and urged the Secretariat to put in place a mechanism to support development of sports.
Hon Dora Byamukama called for promotion of women in sports. “It is unfortunate that as they come of child bearing age, the sports women fizzle out”, Hon Byamukama said.
She appealed for stakeholder support for the budding sportspersons. “Let us also provide sports scholarships for those who excel in sports” she said.
Hon AbuBakr Ogle said the performance of Kenyan athletes was consistent but added that the talent was abundant in the entire region.
Also rising in support of the Motion was Hon Chris Opoka, Hon Peter Mathuki, Hon Frederic Ngenzebuhoro.
EALA is cognisant of the fact that Partner States take a strong stand on enhancing the identification and development of diverse sports talent, promotion of patriotism, citizens’ wellbeing and productivity.
At the Rio games held in Brazil in August 2016, the Republic of Kenya emerged 2nd overall in the sporting discipline with 13 medals (6 gold, 6 silver and 1 bronze) while South Africa was 5th with 4 medals (2 gold and 2 silver). Ethiopia was 9th with 8 medals (1 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze), Algeria 21st with 2 medals (2 silver). Republic of Burundi was the 24th with 1 silver medal in the Games.
The East African Court of Justice First Instance Division will resume its sessions next week on 6th – 28th September 2016. The Court has fifteen (15) matters coming before it and these are four (4) Scheduling conferences, four (4) Applications, three (3) hearings, two (2) Judgments, and two (2) rulings all in open court.
Among the cases that will come before the Court include; a case that was filed by Mr. Steven Deniss from The United Republic of Tanzania against the Attorneys General of the Republics of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania and the Secretary General of the East African Community. The case which was filed on 10th July 2015 in the First Instance Division complains that the provisions of Article 30 (2) of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, about the two (2) months limitation period for filing a matter before the regional court as specified under that Article 30(2) of the Treaty, that it is not only very restrictive but also unjust and discriminatory.
The Applicant further complains that the Provision does not provide ample time for obtaining legal assistance, conducting legal research, documentation of the evidence and securing witnesses expected of a reference before the East African Court of Justice hence has denied him just like other citizens of the Partner States access to justice which is contrary to the fundamental and operational principles of the Treaty as set out in Articles 6(d) and 7(1) (a). He also alleges that the process by which Article 30 (2) of the Treaty was introduced is illegal and that the 6th Respondent had failed in its duty to advice the Partner States to rectify it and equally the 1st to 5th Respondents have failed to cure the illegality in their responsibility to ensure that the objectives of the Treaty are achieved. The hearing is on 19th September 2016.
Another case that is coming up for judgement was filed by the East African Civil Society Organizations’ Forum (EASCOF) against the Attorney General of the Republic of Burundi, Commission Electorale Nationale Independete (CENI) and the Secretary General of the East African Community. The Applicant alleges that the Decision of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Burundi violated the letter and spirit of the Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement for Burundi, 2000 (the Arusha Accord) which was promulgated into domestic law by the Parliament of the Republic of Burundi, in particular Article 7(3) of Protocol 11 to the Arusha Accord which provides that the President of the Republic of Burundi shall be elected for a term of 5 years, renewable only once and that no one may serve more than two (2) presidential terms and the Constitution of Burundi which states under Article 96 that the President of the Republic is elected by universal; suffrage for a mandate of five years renewable one time.
The Applicant further alleges that by reason of the aforementioned breach of the Arusha Accord and the Burundi Constitution, the decision of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Burundi equally violated Articles 5(3)(f), 6(d), 7(2), 8(1)(a) (c) and 8(5) of the Treaty establishing the EAC. He also claims that the decision of the CNDD-FDD political party to nominate or put forward President Pierre Nkurunzinza as a candidate for the election to the Office of the President of the Republic of Burundi in 2015 violated the Arusha Accord aforementioned and is unlawful.
The Applicant also alleges that the Commission Electorale Nationale Independete (CENI) had failed to ensure compliance with the provisions of the EAC Treaty. The matter came up for hearing before the First Instance Division on 13th June, 2016 and court fixed the judgement on 29th September, 2016.
Also on 14th September the Court will hear three Applications in cases filed by three members of Staff of the East African Community Early Warning Unit, accusing the Secretary General for the allegedly giving them notice of termination of their employment contracts. They are asking the court to grant an injunction restraining the Secretary General from effecting his decision the hearing and determination of the main cases.
The subject matter, the Applicants say that, on 17th June 2016, the Secretary General acted beyond his mandate in deciding to terminate the Claimants’ contracts by serving them notices of termination of service, in breach of the Council of EAC Ministers decisions at its 16th , 18th , 19th meeting and 31st Extra-Ordinary meeting, Regulation 96 of Staff Rules and Regulations 2006, the provisions of the Claimant employment contract, the official communications from the European Union (EU) and African Union (AU), the Agreements between EU and AU and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) including EAC. The Applicants still said that on 7th July 2016, received from EAC Registry a notice of three (3) months to terminate their employment contract effective from 20th June 2016 signed by the EAC Secretary General. That by that letter, the Claimants were informed that EAC has no funds to support the APSA African Union Peace and Architecture Support project staff and that for that reason, the Secretary General requested the Claimants to handover all activities under them to Deputy Secretary General in charge of Political Federation.
The Claimants further said that the motif given to justify the decision of termination of staff service is not in the Treaty, neither in the staff rules and regulation nor in the employment contract of the claimants. The claimants added that instead the Treaty under Article 4(2) gives powers to the Secretary General to do all things including borrowing to keep the functions of the Community running.
The Claimants further contend that the Secretary General did not provide any evidence that the APSA support program has ended, instead the Regional Economic Community (RECs) EAC included received Communication from European Union (EU) and African Union (AU) informing it that funds were in the process of being disbursed to support program three (3) and requesting that the staff under APSA support program should be retained to ensure that the capacities that have been developed over the years by the program be sustained. In addition, that the EU and AU have informed that the new APSA support program will run from January 2016 to December 31st 2018 and that the budget allocation has been approved for AU and other RECs, EAC allocation at Euros 2,850,000.
These Applicants/Claimants are Benoit Bihamiriza from the Republic of Burundi, Didacus Kaguta from the Republic of Uganda and Patrice Mulama from the Republic of Rwanda. The Applicants filed their cases on the 15th July, 10th and 12th August 2016 respectively. Benoit Bihamiriza is a Conflict Early Warning Experts Didacus Kaguta is a Peace and Security Officer, and Patrice Mulama is a Senior Analyst Officer – Early Warning
The First Instance Division bench is composed of Honorable Judges Lady Justice Monica Mugenyi (Principal Judge), Justice Isaac Lenaola (Deputy Principal Judge), Justice Dr. Faustin Ntezilyayo, Justice Fakihi A . Jundu, and Justice Audace Ngiye
All matters will be in open Court 2nd Floor EACJ wing, EAC Headquarters, Arusha, Tanzania.
EALA has debated and adopted the Report of the Committee on Accounts on the audited Accounts of EAC for the period ended 30th June 2015. Three outstanding issues the Assembly says need immediate redress, are a curb on wasteful expenditure, a stem on all irregular procurements and an end to short-term contracts that contravene the staff rules and regulations of the Community.
EAC Secretary General, Hon Amb Liberat Mfumukeko moved to assure the House that reforms initiated under his regime would bear fruits. The report presented to the House by the Chair of the Committee on Accounts, Hon Jeremie Ngendakumana notes the overall financial position of the Community remained reasonably healthy with sufficient liquid assets to meet its maturing liabilities. It further states that the financial performance and cash flows for the period were in accordance with the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).
However, many projects and programmes at the EAC have an issue of budget under-absorption requiring proper budgetary planning and coherence and consistency in the budgeting process. The Community also suffers from poor financial management including over one thousand adjustments to the transactions on the general ledger after submission of financial statements.
The Assembly has given the Secretary General up to October 2016 to share with the House the matrices of implementation of its current and previous decisions.
The issue of non-remittances by Partner States also comes to spotlight with the Assembly urging the EAC Council of Ministers to engage all stakeholders on the matter and to ensure contributions are remitted timely.
The report takes an incisive analysis of all the Organs, Institutions and projects of the Community whose budget during the period under review was USD 125,643, 894. Actual expenditure totaled USD 81,349,607, pegged at 65%. The report arises from the Audit Commission on the Financial Statements for the period ended 30th June 2015 and is in line with the Commission’s mandate to fulfil the mandate bestowed on it by Article 134 of the Treaty for the EAC.
The lengthy report also calls for a roadmap on recruitment of staff in line with the staff rules and regulations and calls for an end to short-term contracts.The Assembly advises the Council of Ministers to direct the Secretary General to strengthen EAC Secretariat’s Internal control mechanisms by ensuring that financial transactions are accurately and timely.
Consequently, there is need for the directorate of finance to render efficient and supervisory role within itself. The Assembly is concerned by the high number of adjustments to transactions in the general ledger after the submission of the Financial Statements which it terms a result of laxity.
The report further reveals of the need for EAC management to negotiate and conclusively finalise agreements that exempt VAT with all Partner States that host all meetings and events. According to the report, there is to date an outstanding VAT claimable of USD 847,183 from authorities in the Partner States.
Among other recommendations, the Committee recommends empowering the Office of the Secretary General to sanction members of staff who contravene the Treaty and the Financial Rules and regulations. With it also is the need to undertake a comprehensive review of the Procurement manual in order to bring it in line with the Financial Rules and Regulations 2012. There is need for adherence to the Procurement procedures as laid down.
The Report also takes an inward look of the Assembly itself and findings therein necessitate need for EALA Management to comply with procurement policies and the Financial Rules and Regulations. At the same time, management of the Assembly is urged to adhere to the staff rules and regulations.
At the East African Court of Justice, the report reiterates similar recommendations. The Assembly thus wants the Service Commission to be convened to develop a roadmap to fill all positions that were previously held by short-term contract holders if necessary.
The report further observes that the Partnership Fund should regularly prepare financial statements in line with the Memorundum of Understanding with the development partners.The Assembly is categorical that any or all required documents should be presented to auditors and any irregularly spent amounts reimbursed back. The findings of the African Peace and Security Architecture reveals that a number of projects were not implemented and that only 27% of the total budgeted funds were utilised.
In the regard, the Assembly wants the Council of Ministers to direct the Secretary General to draw realistic budgets, supervise and follow up on disbursement of funds and to institute a Committee which shall probe and come up with solutions to end poor budget performance. At the Kisumu-based Lake Victoria Commission (LVBC), the report emphasises strengthening of control measures, urges the institution to comply with accounting principles and recover all outstanding imprest from staff in line with regulation 40 (3) of the financial rules and regulations.
Under LVBC, the audit further covered the Mount Elgon Regional Eco-System Conservation Project, the USAID Population, Health and Environment Programme (USAID-PHE). Others are the Lake Victoria Water Supply and Sanitation (LVWATSAN) Project and the Lake Victoria Environmental Management Project II (LVEMP II) for the year ended 30th June 2015 as well as the Lake Victoria Basin Commission Partnership Fund.
The Audit reveals of shortfall in funding at the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA) despite reminders and visits made to Partner States on follow-up missions of arrears and a lack of policy to guide on utilisation of arrears.
It therefore recommends that IUCEA management should customise the EAC Secretariat policy on the use of reserve funds and apply the same on utilisation of arrears and excess funds. The education body is also urged to always seek approval for reallocation of funds and to further comply with the set rules and regulations more so on staff development matters. On its part, the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organisation in Jinja should be well funded by the Partner States.
Several reminders on outstanding contributions in form of telephone calls and written letters had not been released in a timely manner and during the period 2010-2013.
“The releases from Partner States in the FY 2014/15 improved greatly (67%) compared to the previous years (less than 35%). LVFO managed to refund USD 234,833 towards the outstanding Operation Save Nile Perch (OSNP) liability in the FY 2014/15”, the report says in part.
A number of legislators supported the report at debate. Hon Dr Francois Xavier Kalinda said irregular recruitment of staff was glaring and that it presented legal challenges for both the concerned staff and the Community itself.
Hon Bernard Mulengani remarked that diligent internal controls within the Finance department was needed and stated that lack of quorum was hampering co-ordination of the set procurement meetings.
Hon Judith Pareno said the report for the better part paints a negative picture of the Community. “It means we are not planning well and are not adhering to the Financial Rules and Regulations. We need to have the Ministers of EAC resident in Arusha to do their political bit and supervisory bit and together with the Secretary General, they will let the Community move forward”, she said.
Hon Emmanuel Nengo said the gap in efficiency in the Secretariat needed to be addressed. “The Secretary General lacks the power to reward those who work well and punish those who do the contrary and the Council of Ministers needs to look into the matter”, he said.
Hon Dr James Ndahiro said there was need for a law on procurement to be introduced to create a legal framework for procurement. Hon Dr Odette Nyiramilimo said the decision to close the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) needed further scrutiny.
The EAC Secretary General, Amb Liberat Mfumukeko, assured the House of reforms in financial management, reduction of travel days among others. “With these reforms, the Secretariat is due to save about USD 6 Million dollars. A few months from now, we shall be following the trends to see if we achieve our set targets”, Amb Mfumukeko said.
On procurement, Amb Mfumukeko, said the previous assessments by the European Union had returned poor scores on procurement, but that the manual had since been updated and the trend has changed.
“Last month, the EU assessment passed a positive result”, he said. “I have considered the Audit report and the Fiduciary Risk Assessment. I have hope that we shall cure the institution”, the EAC chief said.
He said many dockets and departments depended on short-term staff. “The solution to this issue is the Institutional review and we hope that the positions which were frozen shall be opened up to havethe staffing needs met”, Amb Mfumukeko said.Hon Adam Kimbisa said the establishment of a Project Co-ordination Unit was timely.
Hon Patricia Hajabakiga, Hon Bernard Mulengani, Hon Valerie Nyirahabineza, Hon Emerence Bucumi, Hon Nancy Abisai, Hon Pierre Celestin Rwigema and Hon Straton Ndikuryayo supported the Report.
Others were Hon Abdullah Mwinyi, Hon Angela Kizigha, Hon Yves Nsabimana, Hon Martin Ngoga, Hon Susan Nakawuki, Hon Dora Byamukama, Hon Dr. Nderakindo Kessy, Hon Isabel Ndahayo, Hon Frederic Ngenzebuhoro and Hon Patricia Hajabakiga.
The Minister for EAC Affairs in Burundi, Hon Leontine Nzeyimana said the Council was committed to ensuring the decision matrices are implemented.
The Chair of the Council of Ministers, Hon Dr Susan Kolimba lauded the Assembly for the oversight role and remarked the Council of Ministers would make a close follow-up of the recommendations.
The Secretary General of the East African Community, Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko met with the Republic of Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of East African Community, Labour and Social Protection, Hon. Phyllis Kandie, on 30th August 2016 in her office in Nairobi, Kenya.
Amb. Mfumukeko briefed the Cabinet Secretary on five possible areas of strategic focus for the Community in the next five years (during his tenure), which include among others; consolidation of the East African Community Customs Union with focus on expansion of the list of goods under the Single Customs Territory (SCT) to cover all imports and intra-EAC traded goods including agricultural and other widely consumed products.
Implementation of the Common Market, particularly enhanced efficiency in utilisation of natural resources and further liberalization of free movement of skilled labour across the Partner States; enhancement of regional industrial development through investment in key priority sectors, skills development, technological advancement and innovation to stimulate economic development are also the strategic priority areas being proposed by the Secretary General.
Others on the list include improvement of agricultural productivity, value addition and facilitation of movement of agricultural goods to enhance food security in the region; promotion of regional peace, security and good governance; and lastly institutional transformation to, among other objectives, inculcate ethical leadership and enhance integrity in the management of the Community’s resources.
The Secretary General updated the Cabinet Secretary on the progress being made in the implementation of the reforms he instituted in the EAC Organs and Institutions in May 2016 that target cost reduction in the EAC projects and programmes. Amb. Mfumukeko disclosed that the reforms, which target savings to the tune of US$ 6 million in the Financial Year 2016/2017, were already showing positive results in that for the first three months of implementation (May to August 2016), the first estimates point to savings of US $588,768 in travel expenditures.
The Secretary General also shared with Hon. Phyllis Kandie some of the challenges the EAC Secretariat is facing as a result of delayed budget contributions from the Partner States and the long delay in getting disbursement from African Union, which is impacting on some programmes including that of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) Project.
The Secretary General also updated Hon. Kandie on the state of preparations for the upcoming 34th Meeting of the Council of Ministers scheduled for 1st to 5th of September 2016 in Arusha, Tanzania, and the 17th Extra-ordinary Summit of Heads of State of the East African Community scheduled for 8th September 2016 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Hon. Phyllis Kandie reiterated Kenya’s support to Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko’s leadership and his efforts geared towards implementing reforms that focus on cutting cost at the EAC Secretariat. She said all Partner States were going through austerity measures so the Secretariat is not an exception.
The Cabinet Secretary counseled the Secretary General on the need for firm leadership, saying “firm leadership and making tough and well informed decisions for the benefit of regional integration were part of your job requirements”.
EALA is urging all Parliaments and Political Parties of the EAC Partner States to celebrate the International Day of Democracy on 15th September 2016 by having specific programs facilitating and promoting participation of young people in all affairs of their society including in decision making and political affairs.
This afternoon, the Assembly debated and passed a Motion for the Assembly to celebrate the International Day of Democracy. The motion was moved by Hon. Nusura Tiperu.
The Assembly in addition resolved to mark and celebrate the International Day of Democracy by setting an agenda for discussion that ensures political participation of young people as the region embraces the future of democracy.
The 2007 UN Resolution A/62/7 (2007), stipulates that each year, 15th September should be celebrated as an International Day of Democracy and encourages Governments to strengthen national programs devoted to the promotion and consolidation of democracy.
The International Parliamentary Union (IPU) has proposed that all Parliaments should organize activities for this year’s International Day of Democracy on the theme “Democracy 2030”.
The IPU has proposed that three themes oriented around youth, development and the future be incorporated, a move that the EALA supports.
“Having decided that we focus on the Youth-Oriented theme; requiring parliaments to assess themselves on what they are doing to ensure the political participation of young people and prepare the future of democracy and what progress has been made and what needs to be done”, a section of the report states.
In October, 2013, EALA further passed a Resolution on institutionalizing 15th September as the International Day of Democracy in the East African Community region, where it further committed itself to enhance its role in awareness creation on Democracy and on the International Day of Democracy.
In her justification, Hon. Tiperu said the region whose youth populace is pegged at 63% need to celebrate the successes of democracy and to look into the challenges faced.
During debate, Hon. Dora Byamukama said there was need to make key follow-up on what the Partner States do on the very day.“We need to take the issue of democracy very seriously”, she said. “Perhaps Africa needs its own definition taking into account the fact that we need to take to enhance civic education”, she added.
Hon. Mukasa Mbidde said it was necessary for the rule of law and democracy to be adhered to. The motion is anchored on Article 6 (d) and 7 (2) and all Protocols that African States are party to. “It is on this day that we need to tell the Partner States to carry out, and implement what it takes to ensure access to justice is realized”, he said.
The Partner States should also ensure the access and deposit of the declarations required under Article 34 (6) of the Protocol of the African Court and Human Rights. So far only, the United Republic of Tanzania and the Republic of Rwanda have deposited the said Protocol.
On 29th January, 2015, EALA passed a Resolution urging the EAC Partner States to adopt the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
Hon. Mbidde further mentioned that the jurisdiction of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) needs to be extended to cover the crimes against humanity. At the moment, only the ICC can try perpetrators of human rights violation, Hon. Mbidde said.
Hon. Mike Sebalu said championing democracy calls for persons to be democrats at all times. “We should not be denied our democratic choices which is a fundamental right. But on the converse, parties must organise themselves to live up to the needs of democracy”, the legislator said.
Hon. Mumbi Ngaru said it was time for young people to find their way in EALA and respective Parliaments.
Hon. Martin Ngoga called for political willingness to have a mechanism to deal with matters of justice. “We need African solutions to African problems in the area of international justice”’ he said.
The youth are majority and deserve their space in terms of planning and decision making”, he added. They must be part of a constructive agenda and not destructive’, he said, adding, that the Assembly should observe the day by among other things having discussions of intellect on the democratic practices.
Hon. Straton Ndikuryayo lauded the EAC Secretariat for coming up with the initiative of the EAC Youth Ambassadors Platform (YAP) but said the implementation of the Youth Policy in the Partner States that lead to formation of National Youth Councils’ remained a challenge.
He said that National Assemblies should also include representation of the youth in the Assembly. “Democracy needs young people and young people need democracy too”, Hon Ndikuryayo said.
Hon. Abdullah Mwinyi, Hon. AbuBakr Ogle, Hon. Susan Nakawuki and Hon. Nderakindo Kessy also supported the motion.
The Chairperson of the Council of Ministers, Hon. Dr Susan Kolimba said the youth need exposure and more chances in leadership. She said there are a number of youthful faces in the current Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Council of Ministers, Hon. Dr Susan Kolimba also responded to oral questions from the Members.
The Minister for State, of East African Affairs, Republic of Uganda, Hon Julius Wandera Maganda, this afternoon took Oath of Allegiance as an Ex-Officio Member of the Assembly.
Hon. Maganda was sworn in by the Clerk to the Assembly at a brief ceremony witnessed by the Speaker and Members of EALA in line with the Rule 5 of the Rules and Procedures of the Assembly. The Rule 5(4) of the Rules of Procedure says in part that: “No Member can sit or participate in the proceedings of the House until the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance to the Treaty is taken”.
Rule 5(5) specifically states that “when a Member first attends to take his or her seat other than at the first Sitting of a new House, he or she shall be brought to the table by two Members and presented by them to the Speaker who shall then administer the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance”.
Hon. Maganda was ushered in to the House by EALA Members, Hon. Nusura Tiperu, Hon. Dora Byamukama and Hon. Chris Opoka. Hon. Maganda was appointed to Cabinet by H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on June 6 2016. He replaces Hon. Shem Bageine.
Prior to the appointment as Minister for State, East African Affairs, Hon. Maganda was the Member of Parliament of Samia Bugwe County South, a position he still holds to date. Hon. Maganda has served on various Committees in the Parliament of Uganda including that of Education and another on Rules, Discipline and Privileges. Others are the Trade and Tourism Committee and the Committee on National Economy.
Hon. Maganda holds a Bachelor of Public Administration degree from the Islamic University of Uganda, a Certificate in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre in Uganda and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the Uganda Management Centre.
