H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs participated at the Retreat of Ministers of East African Community (EAC) Affairs and Ministers of Foreign Affairs held from 6th to 8th July 2024 in Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania.
The objective of the Ministerial Retreat was to discuss critical issues affecting the region, share insights and collectively strategize on ways to foster sustainable peace, enhance security cooperation, strengthen relationships among Partner States and move the integration agenda forward.
In his address during the opening session of the retreat, H.E Dr. Mudavadi conveyed Kenya’s steadfast resolve, to enhance EAC integration, borne out of Kenya’s belief that is an engine for accelerated development for all partner states.
“I laud the three common protocols, namely, the Custom Union protocol, the Common Market Protocol and the Monetary Union Protocol as the engines of economic development for the EAC. These Protocols have served to enhance intra – EAC trade and there is tremendous scope for growth.” PCS Mudavadi stated.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also applauded the protocols in the areas of peace and stability and defence, as well as enhanced security cooperation witnessed in the regions in the recent past as the drivers for a secure and stable EAC region.
“Kenya’s belief that Cooperation in multiple areas, as envisaged by the EAC Treaty is for the common benefits of all partner states,” the PCS stated, noting that, “Kenya has benefited from the common approach as have all other partner states.”
He highlighted that, the Treaty for establishment of the EAC and its Protocols commits all partner states to the promotion of peace, stability and good neighbourliness. He reiterated Kenya’s steadfast commitment to peace and stability in the region, underscoring its importance for economic development and the welfare of all EAC citizen.
On her part, the EAC Secretary General, H.E. Veronica Nduva stated that the bloc continues to navigate evolving challenges and opportunities, noting that the outcome of the Ministerial Retreat would guide future initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development, and shared prosperity and stability across the region
The Secretary General stressed that, it is only through cooperation and commitment to dialogue that the region can overcome peace and security challenges. She called on Partner States to work together and strengthen regional security mechanisms, promote conflict resolution and foster a culture of peace within the Community.