Posted on February, 26, 2025 at 09:31 am
Stakeholders in Bunyoro, including business leaders and politicians, have called for a review of trade restrictions within the East African Community (EAC), arguing that persistent barriers continue to hinder cross-border business despite regional integration efforts.
During a meeting in Hoima with a delegation from the Ministry of East African Community Affairs led by Commissioner for Economic Affairs Leo Kizito Ojara Ocaya, concerns were raised over the challenges traders face when moving goods and services across borders.
Hoima City Mayor Brian Kaboyo questioned why cross-border trade remains restrictive despite the principles of regional cooperation.
"The East African Community should mean that people can freely move from Uganda to Kenya, Tanzania, and DR Congo to do business, yet traders still face difficulties, especially when accessing South Sudan," he said.
Hoima City East Resident City Commissioner Moses Muyambi urged the EAC to prioritize the removal of non-tariff barriers and streamline cross-border movement.
"We need a common language for the region, but also, why do some member states still require passports for entry? I trust our governments will address this," he said.
Ojara responded that efforts are underway to harmonize trade policies, including resolving tax discrepancies and promoting the use of national identity cards for border crossings.
He highlighted that Swahili and French have been adopted as additional official languages alongside English and that steps are being taken to promote their learning in schools.
He also revealed that the EAC is working towards introducing a single regional currency to facilitate seamless transactions.
"The original target was 2024, but that was missed. The new goal is 2031. A single currency will cut exchange costs and simplify fiscal policies across the region," he said.
Ojara emphasised that the ministry's visit to Bunyoro aimed to gather input from stakeholders on how best to improve trade policies and enhance business integration within the East African Community.
Source: Nilepost