EAC partner states urged to speed up decision implementation

NAIROBI: THE Chairperson of the 13th Joint Meeting of the Sectoral Council of Ministers responsible for Cooperation in Defence, Peace and Security and the Sectoral Council on the Coordination of Foreign Policy, Dr Andrew Musiime, has called on EAC partner states to ensure timely implementation of decisions to foster regional progress.

Speaking during the meeting held in Nairobi on Monday, Uganda’s Dr Musiime said swift and deliberate action is essential in advancing regional stability, peace and security, as well as strengthening the coordination of foreign policy across the EAC.

“Many EAC decisions take longer than expected to be implemented. I urge Partner States to take deliberate and timely action,” he said, underscoring the need for stronger follow-up mechanisms to ensure commitments are translated into tangible results.

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The Tanzanian delegation at the Experts’ Meeting was led by Brigadier General Anna Kerengi, who brought together specialists from three ministerial councils responsible for coordinating matters related to peace, defence, security and foreign policy within the EAC. During the session, experts deliberated on cross-cutting issues, including regional security, peacebuilding and diplomatic coordination.

The Experts’ Meeting preceded the Permanent Secretaries’ Meeting that was scheduled for yesterday, and the Ministers’ Meeting for today. During these sessions, Partner States review the Draft Strategy for the Inclusion of Women in Peace and Security matters, receive updates on the development of the EAC Integrated Electronic Early Warning System.

They also consider proposals to involve Civil Society Organisations, the private sector and religious institutions in implementing community-wide conflict prevention, management and resolution mechanisms.

Tanzania is expected to be represented at the ministeriallevel meeting by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, alongside the Minister for Home Affairs.

The EAC has long relied on coordinated regional mechanisms to address security, peace and foreign policy challenges. The Sectoral Councils of Ministers provide a platform for Partner States to harmonise policies, monitor implementation and advance regional integration.

The joint meetings bring together ministers, Permanent secretaries and technical experts to ensure that strategies on peace, security and diplomatic coordination are aligned and actionable, contributing to stability and sustainable development across East Africa.