Members of Parliament are raising serious concerns about some East African Community (EAC) member states that have consistently failed to honour their financial commitments. The lawmakers argue that these delays in contributions are negatively affecting the smooth operations of the regional bloc.
The National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration recently held a meeting with officials from the State Department for the EAC in Mombasa, where they discussed reports presented by the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) on June 6.
During the session, the MPs expressed frustration over the failure of some EAC countries to pay their agreed-upon contributions, which they said is putting pressure on the bloc’s ability to function effectively, especially in paying salaries for EAC staff on time.
The legislators questioned why Kenya, which consistently fulfills its financial obligations to the EAC, does not appear to receive corresponding benefits. They said Kenya seems to be at a disadvantage for being compliant, while other countries continue to default without facing any consequences.
To address this issue, the MPs called for the establishment of a strong enforcement mechanism within the EAC structure to ensure that all member countries meet their responsibilities.
They recommended that countries that consistently fail to pay their dues should face penalties or even risk being expelled from the regional community if necessary.
The committee supported a proposal that would allow each member country to directly pay salaries of the staff they sponsor, rather than sending money through the EAC budget. They said this would help reduce delays and ensure that workers are paid on time.
The MPs also insisted that the EAC treaty should be revised to protect countries like Kenya that meet their obligations. They argued that compliant nations should not be punished or treated unfairly because of others’ failures.
Principal Secretary for the EAC, Dr. Caroline Karugu, acknowledged that the situation is challenging. She explained that the issue of delayed payments is being taken seriously and is under discussion at the highest levels within the EAC leadership.
She assured the lawmakers that steps are being taken to make sure all member states clear their financial contributions for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.
In addition, Dr. Karugu encouraged the Committee to also focus on addressing other obstacles to regional trade. She pointed out issues like trade taxes and barriers to doing business that are discouraging investment across the EAC region.
During the same meeting, Karachuonyo MP Okuome Adipo raised concerns about ongoing trade tensions between Kenya and Uganda that are affecting local fishermen. He called on the government to ensure smooth and uninterrupted trade relations with Uganda, particularly around Lake Victoria.
“Kenyans are facing serious challenges when it comes to fishing in Lake Victoria,” Adipo said. “Can you guarantee that trade with Uganda will be seamless and fair for our people?”
The lawmakers made it clear that unless action is taken, Kenya’s continued loyalty to the EAC might begin to feel like a burden rather than a benefit.
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