Experts from the East African Community (EAC) have launched a national stakeholder consultation in Rumbek, Lakes State, to gather public views on the proposed EAC political confederation. The one-day consultation brought together representatives from state ministries, women’s associations, civil society organisations, people living with disabilities, academia, youth groups, and church-based organisations. This meeting aims to inform the drafting of a constitution for the proposed EAC political confederation.
The consultation involved experts from eight EAC member states, including South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Participants discussed areas including regional cooperation, governance structures, decision-making, authority, funding, constitutional arrangements, and other issues that stakeholders want addressed. These discussions are crucial in shaping the future of the proposed confederation.
Daniel Laat Kon, CEPO Coordinator in Lakes State, highlighted key proposals presented by civil society during the consultation. He emphasised peace and security, particularly conflict prevention along regional borders, as a priority. Improving infrastructure, having a single currency, and enhancing healthcare and education systems across the region were also discussed. These proposals aim to address the needs and challenges of the people in the region.
Akol James Malala, representing women’s groups in Rumbek, called for stronger representation of women in the proposed confederation and equal opportunities in decision-making. She also urged the confederation to prioritise women’s empowerment, peacebuilding, and protection from early and forced marriage. The concerns and aspirations of women’s groups are essential in ensuring inclusivity and equality in the proposed confederation.
James Maluk Machok, Acting Chairperson of the Lakes State Youth Union, said young people wanted a unified regional education system and better recognition of academic qualifications across member states. This would facilitate the free movement of people and promote economic development in the region. The youth’s perspectives are vital in shaping the future of the EAC.
Andrea Aguer Ariik, EAC Deputy Secretary-General in charge of infrastructure, economic, social, and political sectors, said the consultations were intended to collect citizens’ views on how the proposed political confederation should be structured. He mentioned that South Sudan was the fifth country consulted, following Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, with consultations expected to continue in the remaining member states.
The findings from these consultations will be presented to the EAC Summit for consideration. The proposed EAC political confederation aims to promote regional cooperation, economic development, and social progress among member states. The consultations will help ensure that the confederation is structured in a way that addresses the needs and aspirations of the people in the region.
Key points
- EAC experts consult on proposed political confederation in Rumbek
- Consultation aims to gather public views on regional cooperation and governance
- Findings to be presented to EAC Summit for consideration
