President Ruto Urges EAC Leaders to Unlock Regional Potential.

President William Ruto of Kenya has called on East African Community (EAC) leaders to work together to realize the region's full potential.

Speaking at the 14th East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa, President Ruto emphasized the need for swift and decisive actions to remove trade barriers, expand regional markets, and enhance connectivity.

"Together, we can achieve extraordinary things for our people," President Ruto said. "Let us grow the EAC into a turbocharged engine driving Africa’s economic renaissance and propel the continent to its rightful place as a leader in the next phase of global transformation."

As the newly installed Chairperson of the Summit of EAC Heads of State, President Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the principles outlined in the EAC Treaty.

These principles include enhancing collaboration, fostering trade and investment, and improving the quality of life for East Africans.

The EAC has made significant strides in regional integration, with intra-EAC trade growing from $65 billion in 2017 to $109 billion in 2023. The community is working towards achieving its long-term vision, EAC Vision 2050.

The inter-parliamentary games, running from December 7 to 18, 2024, aim to foster integration and unity among EAC member states.

The event features various disciplines, including football, netball, volleyball, basketball, tug of war, darts, golf, and athletics.

Ugandan Parliament Speaker Anita Among emphasized the importance of establishing the Speakers' Bureau as an EAC organ.

"The East African Legislative Assembly should pass a law to include the speakers in the protocol," she said.

By working together, EAC leaders aim to unlock the region's vast potential and drive economic growth and development.