Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth Oboth has met a group of eminent statesmen on the sidelines of East African Community Week at Parliament, where leaders reflected on regional integration and the future of the East African Federation.
The engagement brought together former government leaders, current officials and members of Parliament to discuss the historical and strategic importance of strengthening unity among East African countries.
Those in attendance included Prime Minister Emeritus Dr Ruhakana Rugunda, Kabale University Chancellor and former Rukungiri District Member of Parliament Mathew Rukikaire, and former Minister for Security during the Obote administration, Chris Rwakasisi.
They were joined by the Minister for Internal Affairs, Prof Ephraim Kamuntu, and members of the Parliamentary East African Community Forum.
Oboth said the discussions focused on the role of regional cooperation in shaping East Africa’s future.
"During the discussions, we shared perspectives on the historical and strategic importance of regional unity," Oboth said.
Rugunda said the meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of pursuing deeper integration within the East African Community (EAC).
"Together with the Speaker, we shared insights on the historical necessity of the East African Federation and the value of a united East Africa, which aligns with the theme of the EAC Week," Rugunda said.
The East African Community Week is being held at Parliament from July 8 to July 10, 2026 under the theme: “Advancing the East African Community Agenda through Legislative Dialogue.”
The event is bringing together legislators and stakeholders to discuss key issues, including harmonisation of laws, expansion of regional trade and efforts to accelerate political federation within the EAC bloc.
The East African Federation is a long-standing goal of the EAC partner states, with discussions focusing on creating deeper political, economic and social integration among member countries.
