EAC boss meets Kiir to advance regional integration
JUBA, South Sudan: THE East African Community (EAC) Secretary General, Ms Veronica Nduva, met with South Sudan’s President and Chairperson of the EAC Summit, Salva Kiir Mayardit, at State House in Juba.
They discussed preparations for the upcoming EAC Silver Jubilee celebrations, reflecting on the achievements of the past 25 years and addressing on-going integration challenges.
Ms Nduva presented the proposed agenda for the EAC Heads of State Ordinary Summit scheduled for November 2024.
They emphasised the need for a comprehensive review of the EAC Treaty to better address evolving challenges and aspirations, enhancing regional cooperation. To bolster collaboration, Ms Nduva proposed establishing a regional Tripartite Forum on Peace and Security, aimed at tackling shared security issues.
President Kiir reaffirmed his commitment to EAC integration and urged strategic initiatives to boost South Sudan’s participation in intra-regional trade.
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The Secretary General highlighted the urgency of operationalising the Nimule-Elego border crossing with Uganda to improve regional connectivity and trade.
She also urged South Sudan to domesticate the EAC Customs Union Management Act to align its customs operations with EAC standards.
Discussions included the full operationalisation of the One Network Area to reduce communication costs among EAC nations and the necessity for the South Sudan Parliament to pass legislation domestically implementing the EAC Treaty Bill.
Ms Nduva extended her condolences to President Kiir on the loss of his elder sister, thanking him for meeting with the EAC delegation during this difficult time. Prior to their meeting, the EAC delegation met with the Chairperson of the EAC Council of Ministers and South Sudan’s Minister of EAC Affairs, Deng Alor Kuol, who was accompanied by Beny Mabor, the Chairperson of the Coordinating Committee.
Ms Nduva was joined by Deputy Secretary General Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth and Counsel to the Community, Dr Anthony Kafumbe.
