The National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, on May 6, expressed concern over the continued failure by some East African Community (EAC) member states to meet their financial obligations.
The situation was said to threaten the operations of the regional bloc, including timely staff salary payments.
In a session with State Department for East African Community Principal Secretary Caroline Karugu, the Committee deliberated on reports received from the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) regarding delayed remittances from partner states.
Lawmakers also voiced their dissatisfaction with the perceived imbalance in the benefits Kenya receives from the EAC, despite the country’s consistent commitment to its financial contributions.
The Committee called for stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance within the EAC framework.
The committee’s suggestions
Some Kenyan MPs proposed sanctions or, in extreme cases, expulsion of persistently non-compliant states.
Karachuonyo MP, Okuome Adipo, raised concerns over regional trade barriers affecting local communities.
“Kenyans are facing serious challenges when it comes to fishing in Lake Victoria. Can you ensure seamless trade with Uganda?” he asked.
On her part, Committee Chairperson, Irene Mayaka sought clarification on the legal and policy tools available to address the crisis.
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“What is the best way forward according to EAC laws and policies to handle the issues the EAC is grappling with?” she posed.
Principal Secretary for the East African Community, Dr. Caroline Karugu, acknowledged the financial and operational difficulties currently facing the bloc.
“I am optimistic that we shall have a way forward for the vibrancy of the Community,” said Dr. Karugu.
She assured the Committee that the matter is under discussion at the EAC Summit level and that efforts are underway to encourage member states to remit their 2024/25 contributions in line with EAC Financial Rules and Regulations.
The parliamentary committee’s conclusions
Dr. Karugu also urged the Kenyan MPs to explore broader trade issues, including taxation policies and the ease of doing business within the region, to help attract and retain investors.
The Committee expressed support for a proposal that would allow member states to directly pay the salaries of their seconded staff serving in EAC institutions.
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However, the members stressed that implementing such proposals would require treaty amendments.
They emphasised that such reforms are necessary to ensure that financially compliant states receive fair treatment and are not economically disadvantaged within the Community structure.
This session was concluded as the committee of Kenyan MPs reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation while insisting on accountability and equitable benefit-sharing among all member states.
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