Achievements in East African Community Integration Agenda Highlighted During NRM Manifesto Week

*By John Kusolo*

During the ongoing NRM Manifesto Week, Edith Mwanje, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, presented the ministry’s achievements in advancing Uganda’s role in the East African Community (EAC) integration agenda. This presentation aligns with the NRM Manifesto (2021–2024), which prioritizes regional integration to foster economic prosperity, enhance security through political cooperation, and promote unity among African peoples.

The event, organized by the Manifesto Implementation Unit under the Office of the President, provides a platform for ministries, departments, and agencies to report on their progress in implementing the commitments made in the ruling party’s manifesto. Below are the highlights from Mwanje’s presentation:

*Customs Union Achievements*

EAC Customs Bond:

Since the establishment of the Customs Union in 2005, the adoption of the EAC Customs Bond has progressed significantly. Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) is now ready to implement the bond, facilitating smoother trade across member states.

*One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs):*

Two OSBPs have been operationalized at Mpondwe and Elegu, while another has been constructed in South Sudan. Uganda also benefits from five additional OSBPs at key points like Busia, Malaba, and Mutukula, enhancing efficiency in cross-border trade.

*Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program:*

Uganda has made strides in implementing the AEO and EAC Regional AEO programs, collecting $245.6 million in customs revenues. These programs reduce cargo clearance times, encouraging seamless trade.

*Elimination of Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs):*

Through the EAC Time-Bound Program, 274 NTBs have been resolved as of 2024, contributing to more efficient trade flows.

*Reduced Transportation Costs:*

Transporting goods between major trade routes has become faster and cheaper:

Dar es Salaam to Kampala: Reduced from 21 days to 7 days.

Mombasa to Kampala: Reduced from 7 days to 3 days, with costs dropping from $3,100 to $1,025.

*Single Declaration System:*

A single declaration system now replaces multiple entries and documentation, simplifying customs processes.

*Export Growth:*

Uganda's exports to EAC member states have shown consistent growth:

2021: $1.532 billion

2022: $1.943 billion

2023: $2.2 billion

Harmonization of Standards:

Uganda has implemented 86% of the 1,161 EAC standards adopted from international bodies, facilitating the region’s exports and enhancing product competitiveness.

*Common Market Progress*

EAC Roads Sub-sector:

Several road infrastructure projects are in advanced stages of planning and feasibility studies, including the Kisumu-Busia, Kakira-Malaba, and Busitema-Busia Expressway projects. These will improve connectivity and boost trade.

*Civil Aviation and Airports:*

The harmonization of EAC civil aviation policies and regulations is 45% complete, while 75% of regulations for air transport liberalization are ready for endorsement.

*Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET):*

Efforts to harmonize TVET strategies across EAC states are underway, aiming to standardize skills development and certifications in the region.

*Monetary Union Advancements*

While Mwanje did not elaborate extensively on the Monetary Union, it remains a critical agenda in achieving a unified currency among EAC states. Ongoing preparations include the harmonization of fiscal and monetary policies.

*Political Federation and Security Cooperation

EAC Political Confederation Constitution:*

The development of a constitution for the proposed EAC Political Confederation began in 2021 and continues in member states. This represents progress toward the ultimate goal of a political federation.

*Transboundary Security Framework:*

A strategic framework on transboundary security has been developed to address cross-border challenges such as cattle rustling and terrorism.

*Peace Caravan and ATEKER Leaders Meeting:*

Uganda hosted a peace caravan and a meeting of ATEKER leaders from Turkana, Toposa, Karamojong, and Didinga communities in Moroto in October 2024, fostering peaceful coexistence in the region.

*NRM Manifesto Implementation Unit*

The ongoing Manifesto Week is managed by the Manifesto Implementation Unit, headed by Director Willis Bashasha and Deputy Director. The unit monitors the implementation of manifesto commitments and liaises with the NRM party to promote the government’s achievements.

Edith Mwanje’s presentation underscores Uganda’s significant contributions to the EAC integration agenda, which align with the NRM Manifesto’s vision of fostering regional prosperity and security. The achievements, particularly in trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and security cooperation, are vital in positioning Uganda as a leader in regional integration. As the NRM Manifesto Week continues, such progress demonstrates the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises to Ugandans.