Media Wire Express Correspondent
Ministers responsible for East African Affairs in the member states of the East African Community (EAC) have resolved to expedite the implementation of key regional agreements and initiatives aimed at strengthening economic integration.
The decision was made during the 34th meeting of the East African Community Sectoral Council of Ministers, which took place on November 8, 2024, at the EAC headquarters in Arusha.
The primary agenda of the meeting included the rapid implementation of the Common Market Protocol, which aims to foster economic cooperation among member states by addressing trade, transport, and employment barriers. One of the key points discussed was the removal of charges and fees that hinder economic activities such as transport and trade. The ministers agreed to accelerate the process of eliminating these obstacles to facilitate smoother transactions across the region.
Another significant issue that was addressed involved the removal of non-tariff barriers in business. Although it has been reported that a total of 274 barriers have been successfully removed since 2007, the ministers agreed that more work remains. They pledged to continue identifying and dismantling barriers that persist, with the aim of improving efficiency and productivity for businesses and citizens throughout the region.
The ministers also discussed several other important matters, including the implementation of the COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite Agreement, preparations for the seventh East African Community Development Strategy (2026/2027-2030/31), and the EAC Vision 2050. Additionally, they reviewed the progress of the Sixth EAC Development Strategy (2021/2022-2025/26) and provided updates on the upcoming 25th anniversary celebrations of the EAC’s establishment.
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The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format, combining both video and in-person participation, and was attended by delegates from all EAC member states. Prior to the ministers’ gathering, experts met from November 4-6, 2024, and the General Secretaries convened on November 7, 2024.
The Tanzanian delegation was led by Hon. Ali Suleiman Ameir, Minister of State at the Office of the President, IKULU Zanzibar. This collective effort aims to advance regional cooperation and ensure that the EAC remains a cornerstone of political and economic stability in East Africa.
This marks another crucial step in the region’s continued push toward greater integration and shared prosperity.
