The East African Community (EAC) Secretary General H.E. Veronica Nduva has called on member states to work together towards fostering peace and security in the region.
The secretary-general made the call during the opening session of the EAC Ministerial Retreat on Peace and Security, Partner States Relations and Integration Process organized by the EAC Secretariat in partnership with the United Republic of Tanzania.
The Ministerial retreat that kicked off on Saturday in Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania is running from 6th to 8th July 2024.
During the retreat, Nduva noted that the retreat provided a platform for frank exchanges, strategic planning, and the identification of actionable steps to enhance peace and security while deepening integration efforts within the EAC.
She emphasized that as the EAC continues to navigate evolving challenges and opportunities, the outcomes of the Retreat would guide future initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development, and shared prosperity and stability across the region.
“I wish to reiterate my message at the recently ended 45th Ordinary Council, on the importance of peace and stability in fostering the social, economic, and political integration of our region,” H.E. Nduva said.
The Secretary-General informed the retreat that it is only through cooperation and commitment to dialogue that the region can overcome peace and security challenges.
She called on Partner States to work together and strengthen regional security mechanisms, promote conflict resolution, and foster a culture of peace within the Community.
On his part, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, United Republic of Tanzania, January Makamba, who is also the host of the retreat, emphasized the importance of unity among the Partner States, adding that it was the catalyst of economic and social development of the region.
“We have the responsibility to make sure that the Community works for the people and by the people as directed by the Summit,” Makamba said.
The meeting was attended by Partner States’ Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Ministers responsible for EAC Affairs and the respective Permanent/ Principal/ Under Secretaries.
Also present at the meeting were: the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Infrastructure, Productive, Social and Political Sectors, Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth; the Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba, the Counsel to the Community, Dr. Anthony Kafumbe; and delegates from Partner States.