During the 23rd Extraordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State, held virtually and chaired by H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, the President of South Sudan, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda played a pivotal role in addressing key issues impacting the region.
His remarks underscored the urgent need for the EAC to overcome existing challenges to achieve its full potential as a unified economic and political entity.
President Museveni began by congratulating Ms. Veronica Mueni Nduva on her appointment as the Secretary General of the EAC, effective from June 7, 2024, until April 25, 2026. He expressed his confidence in her ability to lead the EAC Secretariat and drive forward the integration agenda. Museveni’s endorsement of Ms. Nduva’s appointment highlights his support for strong, capable leadership within the EAC to navigate the complexities of regional cooperation and development.
A significant portion of President Museveni’s remarks was dedicated to the issue of non-tariff barriers (NTBs) within the EAC. He voiced strong reservations about the continued presence of these barriers, which include a range of trade restrictions other than tariffs, such as quotas, import licensing systems, and stringent standards.
Museveni emphasized that NTBs are distorting the economic potential of the EAC, preventing member states from fully benefiting from the regional market. “Non-tariff barriers must be eliminated completely,” he asserted, pointing out that these obstacles undermine the efficiency of trade, increase costs for businesses, and inhibit economic growth. By calling for the removal of NTBs, Museveni is advocating for a more seamless and competitive internal market, which is essential for the EAC’s prosperity and cohesion.
Support for South Sudan’s Political Federation Consultations
President Museveni also expressed his pleasure upon learning about South Sudan’s plans to conduct national consultations on the political federation of the EAC. He lauded this initiative as a crucial step towards deeper integration and encouraged other member countries that have not yet embarked on similar consultations to follow South Sudan’s example.
The political federation is envisioned as the ultimate goal of the EAC’s integration process, aiming to unify the member states under a single political framework. Museveni’s support for these consultations reflects his long-standing commitment to the EAC’s vision of a politically and economically integrated region. He believes that such a federation would enhance stability, foster economic growth, and strengthen the region’s collective bargaining power on the international stage.
President Museveni’s contributions to the 23rd Extraordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State were both insightful and forward-looking. His call to eliminate non-tariff barriers addresses a fundamental issue hindering the region’s economic integration, while his support for political federation consultations underscores his commitment to the EAC’s long-term vision.
As the EAC moves forward, the leadership and strategic direction provided by figures like President Museveni will be crucial in overcoming challenges and realizing the community’s full potential. The outcomes of this summit, particularly the emphasis on removing trade barriers and advancing political integration, set a robust agenda for the EAC’s future, promising greater unity and prosperity for the region
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