In line with Article 64 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the EAC as is customary whenever the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) sits in the Partner States, this 1 November 2022, the President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E. Paul Kagame addressed the 1st Meeting of the 5th Session of the 4th EALA Assembly.
In his remarks, President Paul Kagame urged the adoption of sustainable funding for East African Community, as well as reiterated that the regional Community since its foundation has made progress in line with advancing regional integration.
“Firstly, the East African Community is currently underfunded, delaying the implementation of projects and programs. As partners, we must work together to adopt a sustainable financing mechanism, and take full ownership of our development, with less reliance on external support, which we are appreciative of.” H.E Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda said.
“Connected to that, we must ensure that resources are spent soundly, and make financial accountability a priority.” He added.
The President of the Senate of Rwanda, Rt. Hon. Dr Iyamuremye Augustin commended the presence of the President of Rwanda, stating, “Your Excellency, we are delighted and grateful to have you with us at this Special Sitting of EALA. Thank you for taking the time to address this Legislative body of the East African Community.”
“Kindly accept the expression of our joy and appreciation of the presence of EALA Members. This platform provides us with an opportunity to interact and exchange views, as Members of Parliaments, as we continue to reflect on the critical role of parliaments in consolidating our regional integration.” Dr Iyamuremye said.
On the side of EALA, Speaker Rt. Hon. Ngoga Martin lauded the decision of the Government of Rwanda and especially the Parliament of Rwanda to host EALA sittings and commended the existence of different avenues of collaboration between the two Parliaments and ways to strengthen their friendly partnership.
“This very gesture of accommodating EALA in the precincts of the House over the plenary period communicates a strong statement of cordiality and one of pure friendship. We as EALA are truly grateful for the friendship and look forward to strengthening and solidifying the relations even further.” Speaker Ngoga Martin stated.
EALA which commenced a week ago will consider reports from various Committees of the House, including that of the Regional Affairs and Conflict Resolution Committee to assess the measures instituted by the Partner States for the safety and security of the movement of people and goods on Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika.
The 1st Meeting of the 5th Session of the 4th EALA Assembly is taking place in Kigali, Rwanda from 23 October to 5 November 2022, and its Session is expected to conclude on 5 November 2022.
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