East African Community Headquarters, Arusha, 18th January, 2018:
The EAC Secretary General, Amb Liberat Mfumukeko, has called for serious prioritizing of the available resources to ensure critical activities in the integration process are implemented by the EAC Secretariat in 2018.
Amb. Mfumukeko noted that 2017 had been a challenging year for the EAC and singled out the first and second quarters of the 2017/2018 Financial Year, adding that the Community had experienced serious financial challenges during this period.
Delivering the Secretary General’s New Year Address 2018 to the staff of the EAC Organs and Institutions Amb. Mfumukeko, urged staff not be discouraged by the challenges faced in 2017 by quoting one great man named T.HARV EKER who said “if you want to make a permanent change, stop focusing on the size of your problems and start focusing on the size of you.”
The Secretary General outlined the tremendous achievements made in the EAC integration process in 2017 despite all the challenges as follows:
Single Customs Territory
He disclosed that the main priority was to attain the full roll-out of intra-trade and imports regime under the Single Customs Territory. Most important was the operationalization of 10 One Stop Border Posts, three (3) of which were officially launched with the most recent being the official launch of the Mutukula One Stop Border Post (OSBP) located on the Uganda/Tanzania border in November last year after Holili/Taveta and Rusumo.
Common Market
Partner States continued to facilitate free movement of goods, services, labor and capital and accord rights of establishment and residence to firms and citizens from other Partner States. Last year, the (non-tariff barriers) NTBs Act, 2015 was assented by all the Partner States and regulations to operationalize it were developed.
Also a total of 104 standards were approved by Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (SCTIFI) in June 2017 as East African Standards and 108 international standards endorsed for adoption by the Partner States in accordance with the EAC procedures. This brings to date, the cumulative total number of harmonized standards to 1,428 for the period 2000 - to June 2017. In addition to this, negotiations of Mutual Recognition Agreements for Land Surveyors were concluded.
Amb Mfumukeko disclosed to the staff that in 2017, the Secretariat, in close collaboration with Partner States continued the fight against NTBs in the region. Partner States assented to the EAC Elimination of Non-Tariff Barriers Act 2017. The Act was gazetted and published. During the same year, a draft Export Promotion Strategy 2018-2023 was developed and is now ready for consideration by all stakeholders.
For 2018, the SG urged Partner States to finalise the regulations for successful implementation of the EAC Elimination of Non-Tariff Barriers Act 2017 and intensify monitoring of trade flows along EAC common borders.
Energy and Infrastructure
The Secretary General said that the EAC adopted its Energy Security Policy Framework, making it the first regional economic community to adopt an Energy Security Policy Framework in Africa. This framework aims at providing regional guidance to Partner States in the management and mitigation of the challenges in energy security. The Partner States have acknowledged that energy is pivotal to the regional integration agenda and have therefore set ambitious development plans prioritizing the energy sector.
On Infrastructure, he said the EAC was able to secure funding amounting to US$1.5 million from the AfDB for studies for the Masaka-Mutukula / Bugene-Kasulo road (Tanzania/Uganda). This is in addition to the 2.2 Million USD which was secured for the ongoing studies of the Multinational road projects: Nyakanazi-Kasulu-Manyovu / Rumonge-Bujumbura road (Tanzania/Burundi), Lusahunga-Rusumo/Kayonza-Kigali road (Tanzania/Rwanda) expected to be completed by March 2018.
In addition to this, the Tripartite Transit Transport Programme amounting to 18 million Euros was launched during the 1st Tripartite Sectoral Ministerial Committee on Infrastructure (TSMCI) meeting held in October, 2017
Industrialization Sector
Amb Mfumukeko disclosed to the staff that 2017 EAC launched the EAC Industrial Competitiveness Report. The report was developed to provide direction as the EAC seek to attain the industrialization goals of the Community by expanding market opportunities for the industrial sector in the region and improving the competitiveness of the region, in line with the EAC Industrialization Policy and Strategy.
Gender Sector
EAC registered a key milestone with the enactment of The EAC Gender Equality, Equity and Development Bill, by the 3rd Assembly 2016 early last year. The Bill gives effect to the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights as it expressly prohibits all forms of exploitation, cruel, inhuman or degrading traditional practices
Agriculture Sector
The Secretary General disclosed that the EAC Regional Agriculture Investment Plan was validated. The Plan seeks to catalyze the realization of the EAC Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) goals in five investment thematic areas, namely: Increasing regional agricultural production and food supply; Enhancing food utilization; Promoting agribusiness, value addition and agro-industry; Promoting sustainable natural resource use and management, and; Strengthening capacities of EAC regional agricultural institutions.
Meanwhile, Amb Mfumukeko talked about the elapsing of the 4th EAC Development Strategy 2011-2016, adding that the preparation of the 5th EAC Development Strategy was at an advanced stage.“The proposed 5th development strategy if implemented fully, will be a game changer in the region. It will contribute to eradication of poverty, improved health care and enhance the education standards,” said Secretary General.
He thanked Development Partners for their continued support in 2017 and called for improvement in coordination of projects and communication of results for all projects funded by the Partnership Fund.
The 2018 New Year’s message to staff was also attended by the EAC Deputies Secretary General in charge of Finance and Administration hon. Jesca Eriyo, Planning and Infrastructure Eng. Steven Mlote, Productive and Social Sector, Hon Christophe Bazivamo and Political Federation, Mr. Charles Njoroge. The EAC Director General Customs and Trade, Mr. Kenneth Bagamuhunda was also in attendance.
-ENDS-
For more information, please contact:
Mr Owora Richard Othieno Head, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department EAC Secretariat Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 784 835021 Email: OOthieno [at] eachq.org
About the East African Community Secretariat:
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation of five Partner States, comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
East African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, January 16, 2018:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is expected to resume business next week by holding its Plenary Session in Kampala, Uganda. The Plenary which takes place from January 22nd 2018, through to February 9, 2018, is the Second Meeting of the First Session of the Forth Assembly.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who is the Chair of the Summit of EAC Heads of State, is expected to deliver the State of EAC Address to the Assembly at a date to be communicated. The State of EAC Address is an annual address delivered by the sitting EAC Summit Chair and it sets the momentum and impetus for the integration process by reflecting on general policies that relate to the Community's progress while outlining the strategic challenges which require attention.
The Assembly which is to be presided by the Speaker, Rt. Hon Ngoga K. Martin, shall during the three-week period further discuss the following legislative business:
Debate three key Bills; the EAC Oaths Bill, 2017, the EAC Statistics Bureau Bill, 2017 and the EAC Monetary Institute Bill, 2017.
Hold Plenary to establish and elect Members to the six Committees of the Assembly. They include the Committee on Accounts, the Committee on General Purpose and the Committee on Regional Affairs and Conflict Resolution. Others are the Committee on Legal Rules and Privileges, the Committee on Communication, Trade and Investment, and the Committee on Agriculture, Tourism and Natural Resources.
pose questions to the Council of Ministers, debate and adopt Motions and Resolutions.
The object of the EAC Monetary Institute Bill, 2017, is to provide for the establishment of the East African Monetary Institute (EAMI) as an institution of the Community responsible for preparatory work for the EAC Monetary Union. In accordance with Article 23 of the Protocol on the EAC Monetary Union, the Bill is expected to provide for the functions, governance and funding for the Institute as well as other related matters.
Closely related to the EAMI Bill is the EAC Statistics Bureau Bill, 2017, which also seeks to establish the Statistics Bureau as an Institution of the Community under Article 9 of the Treaty and Article 21 of the Protocol on Establishment of the EAC Monetary Union. The Bill provides for the functions, powers, governance and its funding with a view to establishing an institution responsible for statistics in a bid to support the East African Monetary Union.
On its part, the East African Community Oaths Bill, 2017, anticipates to provide for the taking and administering of Oaths in relation to the specific persons appointed to serve in the Organs or Institutions of the Community or required to take oath before giving evidence at the East African Court of Justice. The Bill moved by the Chair of the Council of Ministers, Rt Hon Ali Kirunda Kivejinja, avers that whereas there are specific persons who are required by the Treaty like in the case of the Judges and Registrars of the EACJ if in justice matters, or an Act of the Community like in the case of EALA Members, in all other cases, oaths of allegiance are administered and taken in accordance with staff rules and regulations or by practice. The Bill therefore hopes to cure the lacuna by providing for the administration of an oath as a statute.
NOTE TO EDITORS ABOUT EALA
The East African Legislative Assembly is the Legislative Organ of the East African Community. Its Membership consists of a total of 62, of whom 54 are elected Members (9 from each Partner State) and eight ex-officio members (the Ministers responsible for EAC Affairs from the Partner States, the Secretary General of the Community and the Counsel to the Community).
The East African Legislative Assembly has legislative functions as well as oversight of all East African Community matters. The enactment of legislation once assented of the Community is effected by means of Bills passed by the Assembly and assented to by the Heads of State. A Bill that has been duly passed and assented to, becomes an Act of the Community and takes precedence over similar legislations in the Partner States. EALA has to date passed 79 pieces of legislation.
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
East African Community Headquarters, Arusha, 22nd December 2017:
The East African Community Secretariat is facilitating a four-day benchmarking visit for Burundi Parliamentarians to the Tanzania Food and Drug Authority (TFDA) and Ministries responsible for Health, Agriculture, and Trade in the United Republic of Tanzania, as part of the support to Burundi government to enable it fast-track the enactment and implementation of the Burundi National Pharmaceuticals Regulation Law that is currently before the Parliament of Burundi.
The benchmarking visit, which begun on Wednesday 20th December, is also part of the EAC Secretariat’s efforts to enable the Government of Burundi to establish and fully operationalize the Autorite’ Burundaise de Regulation des Medicaments et des Aliments (ABREMA) as public autonomous or semiautonomous body and legally designated to oversee effective regulation of food and medicinal products in the country in accordance to the regional and international best practices.
The study tour was recommended by the Participants who attended a one-day high level National Multi-Stakeholders Advocacy and Sensitization Workshop on strengthening of national pharmaceutical laws and establishment of “autorite nationale de la regulation des medicaments et des aliments (ABREMA)” in the Republic of Burundi, that was held on 7th December 2017 at the Panoramique Hotel in Bujumbura, Burundi.
Participants recommended and requested the EAC Secretariat to organize and facilitate the study tour to enable the Members of the respective Committees in Parliament and technocrats to get find hand experience on the operations of TFDA and the concerned Ministries in regard to enactment and implementation of National Pharmaceutical and Regulation Law.
The 22-Member delegation, is being led by Hon. Felix Niragira, MP and Burundi’s President of Justice and Human Rights Commission, and consists of Members of the Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, Environment and Community Development; Committee on Accounts, Finances, Economic Affairs and Planning; Committee on Justice and Human Rights; Committee on Social Affairs, Repatriation of Refugees, Equality and Fight against AIDS. Others include Technical Experts from the Ministries responsible for Health, Agriculture, Trade/Commerce and the Burundi National Bureau of Standards (BBN).
Addressing the delegation this morning Friday 22nd December, at the Ministry of Health offices in Dodoma, the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Hon. Eng. Stella Manyanya commended the commitment of the Legislators in the benchmarking visit having driven a long distance from Dar es Salaam and reaching Dodoma past midnight.
She said the implementation of the EAC Council decision by Burundi on the establishment of National Authority responsible for food and drugs will lay an equal play ground for the EAC Partner States in monitoring regulations harmonization, an initiative that the Partner states had worked on for so long.
She said establishment of National Authorities helps to minimize non-tariff barriers (NTBs). “The commitment of the Republic of Burundi to implement the Council decision is a step forward to resolve some of the unnecessary NTBs in the region”, affirmed the Hon. Eng. Stella Manyanya.
At the same occasion, Hon. Felix Niragira, MP and Burundi’s President of Justice and Human Rights Commission, applauded the EAC Secretariat for organizing and facilitating the benchmarking visit and said the visit was very fruitful; and will enable the Burundi Parliamentarians to make informed decision on enacting National Pharmaceuticals Regulation Law that is before Assembly. He said Tanzania was chosen for the benchmarking visit because of it (Tanzania) was a sister Partner State and TFDA was well established with long experience.
At the same function, officials from the Ministries responsible for Health, Agriculture, and Trade shared with the Burundi delegations their various mandates and how they build synergies with TFDA.
The Burundi Parliamentarians could not meet their counterparts because the Tanzania National Parliament was on Christmas and New Year holidays recess.
On Thursday 21st December, the delegation visited the Tanzania Food and Drug Authority Headquarters in Dar es Salaam, where the Ag. Director General, Dr. Danstan Hipolite shared with them the roles and responsibilities of TFDA, its Policies, Legal Framework and Governance Structure, as an Executive Government Agency under the Ministry responsible for Health mandated to control safety, quality and effectiveness food, medicines, cosmetics and medical devices including vitro diagnostics in Tanzania.
The Ag. Director General underscored the milestones of TFDa, that include, among others, being ISO 9001:2008 certified since June 2009 and ISO 9001:2015 (August 2017); putting in place key regulatory systems, processes and procedures; and setting up a WHO Prequalified medicines testing lab since Jan, 2011. TFDA’s Food and Microbiology laboratories were accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2005 since September 2012 and its HR capacity has increased from 52 in 2003 to the current 293 with seven (7) operational zone/branch offices and inspectors in 10 major ports of entry are some of the milestones.
TFDA’s Legal Counsel, Iskari C. Fute took the Burundi delegation step by step on Tanzania Food, Drugs and Cosmetics Act, Cap 219 including the Preliminary and Administrative/General Provisions; Provisions regarding Food; Provisions regarding Drugs; Cosmetics; Packaging and Labeling; Promotion; Enforcement and Legal Proceedings; among others.
Earlier, members of the delegation visited Shellys Pharmaceutical Company and were received by the General Manager, Mr. Yajas Ulla, who briefed them on how the Company was operating under the Tanzania Law on Food and Drugs.
Notes to Editor
The Republic of Burundi is the only Partner State in the Community that has not enacted and implemented strong National Pharmaceutical Laws through the National Parliament and has not established semi-autonomous National Medicines Regulatory Authorities (NMRAs) in order to promote public health and safety as well as facilitate cross-border trade in medicines, health technologies and other medical products, including enhancing local pharmaceutical manufacturing under the EAC Common Market Protocol.
The Republic of Burundi is still lagging behind hence denying the country the benefits of the harmonized EAC Regional Guidelines and Standards for Medicines Evaluation and Registration, Good Manufacturing Practices, Quality Management Systems and Information Management Systems as well the Mutual Reciprocal Recognition and Technical Cooperation with other Partner States and the International Medicines Regulatory Bodies and Agencies.
-ENDS-
For more information, please contact:
Mr Owora Richard Othieno Head, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department EAC Secretariat Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 784 835021 Email: OOthieno [at] eachq.org
About the East African Community Secretariat:
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation of five Partner States, comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
East African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, Tanzania: December 20, 2017:
The Assembly has elected Members to the EALA Commission. The House approved by secret ballot the names of two Commissioners each, from the Republics of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan and the United Republic of Tanzania in line with the provisions of Section (3)(2) of the Administration of the Assembly Act, 2011 and Rule 83 (1), (2) and (3) of the Rules of Procedure of the EAC. The Motion to constitute the Assembly was moved by Hon Chris Opoka-Okumu. The following were elected and will sit in the EALA Commission for two and a half years.
Republic of Kenya Hon Muhia Wanjiku – 35 votes. Hon Dr Oburu Oginga – 33 votes.
Republic of Rwanda Hon Dr Kalinda Xavier Kalinda – 35 votes. Hon Gasinzigwa Oda – 35 votes.
Republic of South Sudan Hon Dr Itto Leonardo Ann -34 votes. Hon Gabriel Garang Aher Arol – 35 votes.
United Republic of Tanzania Hon Nkuhi Fancy Haji – 35 votes. Hon Yahya Mariam Ussi – 35 votes.
Republic of Uganda Hon Nakawuki Susan - 35 votes. Hon Mukasa Mbidde – 35 votes.
The nominees of the Republic of Burundi withdrew in writing to the Clerk. The Chair of the EALA Chapter from the United Republic of Tanzania had similarly written to the Clerk requesting to withdraw the names. However, in absence of the withdrawal by the nominees per se, the Speaker therefore ruled that the names be maintained in the list. The election which took place at the EALA Chambers was presided over by the Clerk to the Assembly, Mr Kenneth Madete. There were no spoilt votes.
The EALA Commission is a creation of the Administration of the Assembly Act 2011. The mandate of the Commission is to manage the business and the programmes of the Assembly, to nominate Members of Standing and other Committees and to recommend to the Council the appointment of the Clerk and other Officers of the Assembly. The Commission further causes to be prepared in each Financial Year, estimates of revenue expenditure for the Assembly for the next Financial Year and to perform other functions as may be necessary for the well-being of the Members and staff of the Assembly so as to ensure the effective and efficient functioning of the Assembly.
Prior to dispensing with the activity, the Assembly moved a motion under Rule 30(d) and the corresponding Rule 84(1) on suspension of a rule and in this particular case that on Rule 12 on quorum of the House. The motion was moved by Hon Susan Nakawuki and seconded by Hon Abdikadir Aden. Hon Aden said the motion was well intended as it would allow the House to carry out the important work. Others rising in support were Hon Kennedy Kalonzo, Hon Fatuma Ali and Hon Chris Opoka while Hon Dr Ngwaru Jumanne opposed the motion.
The House meanwhile adjourned sine die (without resumption date).
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
East African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, Tanzania: December 20, 2017:
Rt Hon Martin Ngoga was yesterday elected Speaker of EALA. Rt Hon Ngoga polled 33 votes in the second round of voting against Hon Leontine Nzeyimana of Burundi who amassed 3 votes. Hon Adam Kimbisa of the United Republic of Tanzania did not receive any votes.
The election which took place at the EALA Chambers was presided over by the Clerk to the Assembly, Mr Kenneth Madete.
In the first round of voting, Hon Ngoga got 35 votes while only one vote was cast in favour of Hon Nzeyimana who was absent. In accordance with the Rules of Procedure, a second round of voting was called since no candidate had amassed the requisite two-thirds of the votes cast (36 out of 54). The fourth Assembly comprises of 54 lawmakers – with nine from each of the six Partner States.
The Rules of Procedure state that a candidate for Speaker should get a two-thirds majority to be a clear winner. In absence of the same, a further ballot (second round) shall be held. A candidate who receives the highest number of votes shall then be declared the winner. In the second round, Rt Hon Ngoga managed 33 votes to be declared the winner.
The new Speaker immediately took a reconciliatory tone and rallied for unity and teamwork.
“I salute my worthy competitors in the race and ask that we work together for the benefit of EALA and the region. I wish to extend my arm of collaboration and co-operation”, Rt Hon Ngoga said.
The Speaker pledged to work tirelessly to ensure the Assembly realizes its mandate.
“I can only assure you Hon Members that I will provide the leadership you deserve in order to perform our statutory functions with which we are tasked to take our integration process to another level”, Rt Hon Ngoga said. “I will spare no efforts to provide the leadership you need to maintain high moral standing for us to confidently exercise oversight to other Institutions of the Community”, he added.
The occasion yesterday was attended by the President of the Senate of Rwanda, Rt Hon Bernard Makuza, Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly of South Sudan, Rt Hon Anthony Makana and several Members of Parliament and Senators from the Republic of Kenya.
Prior to his election, Rt Hon Ngoga served in the 3rd Assembly. He was previously Prosecutor General in Republic of Rwanda. In May this year, Rt Hon Ngoga added another feather to the cap when he was elected and confirmed by the congress of the global football body as deputy Chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee in charge of investigatory chamber for a four-year term. The independent Ethics Committee is one of FIFA's judicial bodies primarily responsible for investigating possible infringements of the FIFA Code of Ethics.
The elections were finally done after lengthy debate. The House passed a Motion moved by Hon Mukasa Mbidde that the election be held strictly under Rule 6 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly and that no rule exogenous to the same would be used.
He stated had earlier stated the election ought to be conducted strictly under Article 53 (1) of the Treaty. He remarked that the election of Speaker would be carried out by Members in their individual capacities given that before that is done, the House is not fully constituted.
Two Members from the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon Dr Ngwaru Jumanne Maghembe and Hon Abdullah Makame put up a spirited fight to have the House suspended over lack of quorum. Other than the two, other Members from the United Republic of Tanzania and Burundi were conspicuously absent from the debate.
EALA is an Organ of the East African Community established in 2001 with a mandate of legislation, representation and oversight. Rt Hon Ngoga takes over from Rt Hon Daniel F. Kidega whose tenure ended on June 4th, 2017.
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
East African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, Tanzania: December 19, 2017:
EALA Members have taken Oath of allegiance presided over by the Clerk to the Assembly, Kenneth Madete. However, the Assembly adjourned until Tuesday, December 19th, 2017 without the much-anticipated election of the Speaker.
A quorum hitch occasioned by absence of Members from Tanzania and Burundi as the process of electing the Speaker got underway, compelled the Clerk to call the roll.
Hon Leontine Nzeyimana from Burundi brought the matter of lack of quorum to the attention of the Clerk after invoking Rule 12 of the Rules of Procedure of the House. Under the rule, quorum of the House or the Committee of the whole House shall be half of the elected Members and such quorum shall be composed of at least one third of the elected Members from each Partner State.
The race for the Speakership is contested by Hon Martin Ngoga of Rwanda, Hon Leontine Nzeyimana (Burundi) and Hon Adam Kimbisa (Tanzania). The candidate who gets elected shall preside over the House and direct its activities over the next five years.
The bit of the swearing in of Members was well attended. The President of the Rwanda Senate, Rt Hon Bernard Makuza, Speaker of Senate of Kenya, Rt Hon Kenneth Lusaka and Speaker of Transitional National Legislative Assembly of South Sudan, Rt Hon Anthony Lino Makana, graced the occasion. Hon Rosalind Tuya represented the Speaker of the Kenya National Assembly, Rt Hon Justin Muturi.
Several legislators of the Parliament of Tanzania led by MP Hon Mussa A Zungu were in attendance. Other leaders in attendance included the Governor of Nairobi County, H.E. Mike Mbuvi Sonko, and his Uasin Gishu counterpart, H.E. Jackson Mandago, the President of the Democratic Party, Hon Nobert Mao, friends and family of the Members who were being sworn in.
EALA is an Organ of the East African Community established in 2001 with a mandate of legislation, representation and oversight.
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
Members’ oath of allegiance and election of Speaker top the agenda
East African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, Tanzania: December 15, 2017:
Parliament of Kenya late Thursday elected its nine representatives to the regional Assembly, setting stage for the inauguration of the 4th Assembly on December 18th, 2017, in Arusha, Tanzania. Top on the agenda during the week-long 1st Sitting of the 1st Session of the 4th Assembly, is the swearing-in of Members, election of the Speaker and that of Members to the EALA Commission as well as the constitution of various Committees.
The nine elected nominees to EALA from Kenya are Hon Simon Mbugua, Hon Florence Jematiah, Hon Mpuri Aburi, Hon Aden Noor and Hon Wanjiku Muhia. Other members are Hon Oburu Odinga, Hon Kennedy Kalonzo, Hon Abdikadir Aden and Hon Fatuma Ibrahim.
The 3rd Assembly wound up its tour of duty on June 4th, 2017 and was expected to have commenced on June 5th 2017. However by then, only Parliament of Uganda, Parliament of Tanzania, Parliament of Burundi and Parliament of Tanzania had finalised the processes. The Transitional National Legislative Assembly of South Sudan on its part, had to repeat its elections following an application filed at the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) by a citizen of the country, Mr Wani Salantino challenging the process. The Parliament revisited the issue and held fresh elections on August 3rd, 2017, before filing the names with EALA.
Parliament of Uganda was the first House to elect Members to the regional Assembly on March 1st, 2017. Their 9 Member team consists of three returning incumbents, Hon Susan Nakawuki, Hon Fred Mukasa Mbidde and Hon Chris Opoka. The new faces to EALA are Hon Rose Akol, Hon Mathias Kasamba, Hon Mary Mugyenyi and Hon Paul Musamali. Others are Hon Dennis Namara, and Hon George Stephen Odongo.
Parliament of Tanzania returned Hon Adam Kimbisa and Hon Maryam Ussi from the 3rd Assembly. The newcomers include Hon Josephine Lemoyan, Hon Happiness Lugiko, Hon Pamela Maassay, Hon Dr Ngwaru J Maghembe, Hon Dr Abdullah Makame, Hon Eng. Habib Mnyaa and Hon Fancy Nkuhi.
Parliament of Rwanda’s list submitted to EALA in May 2017, includes Hon Pierre Celestin Rwigema, Hon Martin Ngoga, Hon Gasinzigwa Oda and Hon Kalinda Francois Xavier, all who previously served in the 3rd Assembly. New faces include Hon Alex Bahati, Hon Fatuma Ndangiza, Hon Rutazana Francine, Hon Barimuyabo Jean Claude and Hon Uwumukiza Francoise.
Parliament of Burundi on their part elected Hon Jean Marie Muhirwa, Hon Leontine Nzeyimana, Hon Ahingejeje Alfred, Hon Burikukiye Marie Claire, Hon Burikukiye Victor, Hon Karerwa Mo-Mamo, Hon Nduwayo Christophe, Hon Rurakamvye Pierre Claver and Hon Nsavyimana Sophie.
South Sudan’s representatives are Hon Dr Ann Itto Leonardo, Hon Gai Deng Nhial Deng, Hon Dr Woda Jaremiah Odok, Hon Gabriel Garang Ahol and Hon Dr Gabriel
Garang Arol. Others are Hon Thomas D Deng, Hon Mukulia Kennedy Ayason, Hon Kim Duop and Hon Gideon Gatpan Thoar.
Meanwhile, preparations for the forthcoming Sitting are at an advanced stage in Arusha with a number of Speakers from the Partner States’ Parliaments expected to grace the occasion.
All Members are expected to be sworn in by the Clerk before election of the Speaker. The new EALA Speaker who takes over from Rt Hon Daniel F. Kidega is expected to guide the Assembly over the next five years taking it a notch higher in the integration dispensation.
EALA is an Organ of the East African Community established in 2001 with a mandate of legislation, representation and oversight. It is constituted of nine elected members from each of the Partner States.
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
East African Community Headquarters, Arusha, 11th December, 2017:
A two-weeks East African Community Armed Forces Command Post Exercise dubbed Ushirikiano Imara 2017 is ongoing at the Tanzania Peoples Defence Forces’ Peace Keeping Training Centre in Kunduchi in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The Command Post Exercise is being held in the context of the East African Community Protocol on Cooperation in Defence Affairs. The Areas of cooperation embedded in the Protocol on four pillars include; military training, joint operations, technical cooperation, and visits and exchange of information.
Addressing the official opening session of the exercise on 7th December, Tanzania’s Minister of Defence and National Service, Hon. Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi commended the EAC Sectoral Council on Cooperation in Defence and the Partner States for implementing some of the provisions of the Protocol on Cooperation in Defence Affairs.
He also commended the EAC Secretariat and the Partner States for the excellent arrangements put in place to conduct the exercise in Dar es Salaam, saying, “the commitments put in are a testimony of the importance the region puts in the exercise and regional integration agenda”.
The guest of honor urged the participants to exhibit utmost commitment and discipline in order to reap maximum benefit to their respective Partner States and the region as a whole.
Addressing the same occasion, Uganda’s Defence Minister and Chairperson of the EAC Sectoral Council on Cooperation in Defence, Hon. Adolf Mwesige said the objective of the Command Post Exercise was to enhance the ability of the EAC Partner States’ Defence Forces and other key stakeholders to work together in an operational theatre.
“This Exercise offers a platform on which to evaluate the readiness of the EAC Partner States’ Defence Forces and key stakeholders to respond to complex security challenges. It also avails an opportunity to practice the EAC Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Peace Support Operations, Disaster Management, Counter Terrorism and Counter Piracy operations” noted Uganda’s Minister of Defence.
He noted that the changing security environment in the region and globally calls for regular training that is well coordinated especially where threats do not respect borders.
The Chairperson expressed his gratitude to the Summit of EAC Heads of State and the Sectoral Council on Cooperation in Defence for excellent leadership and guidance the sector has always received, which has enabled it to achieve so many milestones within a short time.
He appreciated the EAC Defence Forces for the good camaraderie exhibited in preparing for the Exercise, which further strengthens the cause of East African Community unity, common defence, security, peace and development.
On his part, the Deputy Secretary General in charge of Political Federation, Mr. Charles Njoroge, who represented the Secretary General, Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko, said the Exercise was designed to practice participants from the military, civil police and civilians in the planning and conduct of Peace Support Operations, Disaster Management, Counter Terrorism and Counter Piracy operations with the purpose of enhancing the capabilities of the Partner States’ Defence forces to combat complex security challenges.
He said the Security challenges within the region are addressed through such military exercises that help the Armies build required capabilities. “It must be mentioned here that the EAC Defence Forces have gone beyond exercises and are operating together in several missions such like AMISOM in Somalia,” said the DSG.
The EAC official reiterated that the Military Exercise was being held at a time when the EAC integration process was intensifying on all fronts. “Our Community has strengthened its Customs Union and is now a Single Customs Territory, Non-Tariff Barriers to Trade along our major corridors have come down and Intra EAC trade has grown. Significant progress has been made on the type of Political Federation East Africa will have, which is the Ultimate aim of our Community”.
Mr. Njoroge informed the guests that all Partner States were being represented in the exercise except for the new member, the Republic of South Sudan which sent an apology, was represented by the Under Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Major General Simon Ananias.
Present at the official opening were; Members of the East African Legislative Assembly and Members of Parliament of Tanzania; Chiefs of the Defence Forces; Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Service Commanders and General Officers; Defence Liaison Officers at the EAC Headquarters; Members of the Defence Forces Contingents of the EAC Partner States, Civil Police and Civilians
-ENDS-
For more information, please contact:
Mr Owora Richard Othieno Head, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department EAC Secretariat Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 784 835021 Email: OOthieno [at] eachq.org
About the East African Community Secretariat:
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation of five Partner States, comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
East African Legislative Assembly, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: 8th December 2017:
The bar has been raised high! EALA once again proved too good for their opponents. Little credit goes this time around to the Parliament of Burundi who became the first team were able to find the net for a consolation goal, but not before their goalkeeper returned to retrieve the ball from the back of the net seven times!
Star striker, Ibrahim Jamal proved why he is currently the dime in the Parliamentary games, snatching a brace in the competition. The game started on slow pace with the Parliament of Burundi making early foray in EALA’s half. However, the striking duo of Hon Denis Karera and Simon Gakinja was ineffective in front of goal. EALA’s substitute, Emmanuel Diah took the place of midfield dynamo, Wyclif Ketto who was benched today with a slight injury.
Against the run of play, Ahmed Mwapambe beat the defence marshaled by Andre Ndinze, Hon Therance Manirambona and Hon Hon Beded Mbayahaga to draw first blood.’
EALA were up at it again even before Parliament of Burundi could settle. This time, Boniface Ogoti picked a loose ball in the midfield and fed Ibrahim Jamal who tapped past the advancing goalkeeper, Hon Ibrahim Uwizeye. Other goals were scored by Player/coach Khalfan Kingi, and Hon Julius Wandera Maganda.
In men’s volleyball, Kenya beat Uganda 3-0. In the first set, Kenya beat 25 against Uganda’s 11 before repeat 25-09 in the next set. In set three, the victors once again beat Uganda 28-26.
The script was the same in women’s volleyball Kenya similarly beat Uganda 3-0 in sets of (25-12), (25-22) and (25-16).
In netball, the Parliament of Uganda beat EALA 34-23 in an entertaining match. Uganda’s Hon Sarah Babirye netted 22 goals for the victors.
- ENDS -
For more information, please contact:
Bobi Odiko Senior Public Relations Officer East African Legislative Assembly Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255-27-2508240 Fax: +255-27-2503103 Cell: +255-787-870945, +254-733-718036 Email: BOdiko [at] eachq.org Web: www.eala.org
About the East African Legislative Assembly:
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) is the Legislative Organ of the Community and has a cardinal function to further EAC objectives, through its Legislative, Representative and Oversight mandate. It was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.
East African Community Headquarters, Arusha, 11th December, 2017:
The 18th edition of the annual EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi Exhibition themed Buy East African Medium and Small Enterprises’ (MSEs) products to build East Africa, came to an end in Bujumbura, Burundi on Sunday, 10th December, 2017.
The exhibition, which attracted 830 artisans from five Partner States – Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan and the host country Burundi – ended with a call by the government of Burundi government to the other EAC Partner States to strongly support the private and informal sector in the bloc.
Speaking during the event’s closing ceremony, Burundi’s Assistant Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism, Mr. Nkunzumwami Aimable, said there was need to deliberately support the growth of Jua Kali (informal sector) by giving the necessary and enabling policies that are conducive to enhance opportunities and returns on investment in the informal sector.
Mr. Aimable, who was representing the Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism, challenged the artisans not to wait for another Jua Kali exhibition opportunity in Burundi but to use this opportunity to network and open up stalls in Bujumbura and other parts of the country so that their products can be easily accessed in the country.
“Don’t just sit and wait for the annual exhibitions, venture out and explore opportunities available in all the Partner States”, the governments are ready to support you,” said the Minister to the participants.
He said the prevailing peace and security in Burundi was good for the East African citizens to invest or tour the country.
Addressing the same occasion, the EAC Director of Trade, Alhaj Rashid Kibowa, said the exhibition had offered a very good opportunity for the artisans to enhance competitiveness and increase employment, thereby accelerating the region’s sustainable economic growth and reducing poverty.
He acknowledged the role played by the informal sector in the economies of the Partner States in terms of employment creation and income generation.
Alhaj Kibowa said that the sector contributes to the resilience of the regional economy by promoting industrialization through the utilization of the available raw materials, and as a player in the backward and forward value chain linkages the big manufacturing firms.
Kibowa commended the Partner States and EAC Confederation of Informal Sector Organizations (CISO) for partnering with the Secretariat in organizing the annual exhibitions. He also commended the EAC Steering Committee for the successful preparations of the event.
The Deputy Patron of the CISO, Mr. Keli Kiilu rooted for the institutionalization of the EAC CISO/Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi week in the Community in order to recognize the critical role the sector plays in the Partner State’s economies but also to dedicate time for CISO /Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi activities during that period.
Meanwhile several dignitaries visited the EAC exhibition stand during the one –week-long event to learn about the regional integration agenda. Among them was the First Lady Rev. Denise Nkurunziza, who spoke fluent Kiswahili.
Others included the Secretary General of the Government, Hon. Philippe Nzobonariba; Hon. Felix Mpozeriniga, Minister of Public Service, Labour and Employment; Hon. Dr. Josiane Nijimbere, Minister of Public Health; Mr. Nduati Mwangi, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Industry; several government officials and Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to the Republic of Burundi.
-ENDS-
For more information, please contact:
Mr Owora Richard Othieno Head, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department EAC Secretariat Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 784 835021 Email: OOthieno [at] eachq.org
About the East African Community Secretariat:
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation of five Partner States, comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
