Unlocking Potential: EAC Minister’s Inspiring Visit to Busitema University
Rt. Hon Rebecca Kadaga delivered her keynote address at Busitema University in Busia District.
The First Deputy Premier and Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs Uganda, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, recently visited Busitema University’s main campus in Busia District. During her visit, she called upon students and lecturers to undertake research in regional integration matters, emphasizing the need for academic research to shape the policy and direction of the EAC Integration Agenda.
In a hall filled, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga addressed and interacted with over 200 students in a Q&A session. She discussed the EAC Integration, which is premised on the four pillars of the EAC Treaty: the Customs Union, the Common Market, the Monetary Union, and the Political Federation. She highlighted the need for a political confederation to eradicate non-tariff barriers and improve immigration policies, among other issues.
The event was graced by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of EAC Affairs Uganda, Mrs. Edith Mwanje. Before inviting Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga to deliver her address, Mrs. Mwanje noted that the EAC region is full of untapped potential for academic growth and innovation, offering numerous opportunities for scholars and institutions to thrive.
The university administration, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako, welcomed the minister and her technical staff from the ministry. Prof. Waako addressed the attendees on the progress of the university and its commitment to contributing to the EAC Integration Agenda.
Institutionalization of EAC Integration
The Ministry of East African Community Affairs Uganda institutionalizes EAC integration under Article 5(2) of the EAC Treaty. This article outlines the objectives of the EAC, which include establishing a Customs Union, a Common Market, a Monetary Union, and ultimately a Political Federation among the partner states.
Importance of Such Meetings to University Students
Meetings like the one held at Busitema University are crucial for university students for several reasons:
1. Educational Enrichment: Students gain first-hand knowledge about regional integration and its impact on their future careers and opportunities.
2. Research Opportunities: Encouragement from high-ranking officials like Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga inspires students to engage in research that can influence policy and contribute to the EAC Integration Agenda.
3. Networking: Such events provide students with the opportunity to interact with policymakers, academics, and peers, fostering a network that can be beneficial for their academic and professional growth.
4. Awareness and Engagement: Students become more aware of the EAC’s objectives and are motivated to participate actively in the integration process, contributing to the region’s development.
Highlights of the EAC Treaty
The Treaty for establishing the East African Community was signed on November 30, 1999, and came into force on July 7, 2000. The treaty has been amended several times to accommodate the evolving needs of the community. Key highlights of the treaty include:
Objectives of the Community: Establishing a Customs Union, a Common Market, a Monetary Union, and ultimately a Political Federation.
Fundamental Principles: Mutual trust, political will, and sovereign equality; peaceful coexistence and good neighborliness; equitable distribution of benefits; and cooperation for mutual benefit.
Operational Principles: People-centered and market-driven cooperation, subsidiarity, and variable geometry.
Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga’s visit to Busitema University underscores the importance of academic research and student engagement in the EAC Integration Agenda. By fostering a deeper understanding of regional integration, such meetings contribute to developing future leaders who will shape the policy and direction of the East African Community.
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