The Integration Committee has affirmed the government’s pledge to enhance active participation in the East African Community (EAC) to help curb budgetary challenges crippling the regional bloc.
It has been noted that EAC has been struggling with its budget because they have been working with irregular remittances due to the financial instability of some member states.
Speaking at the Parliamentary Committee on Regional Integration held at Serena Mombasa, East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands Cabinet Secretary, Penina Malonza highlighted the primary focus of their discussions, central to their agenda was the examination of integration-related matters, with a particular emphasis on budgetary considerations.
Malonza emphasised the importance of acknowledging and evaluating the contributions made by partner states within the East African Community. She said this strategic approach underscores their commitment to fostering deeper regional cooperation and realising the collective aspirations of all member states.
The committee and government delegation also reviewed the performance of the East African Community over the past year. Key priorities included boosting Kenyan involvement and enhancing bilateral relations with partner states.
Emphasising her pivotal role in emergency response management within the country, she underscored the swift and effective action taken by the government in addressing the needs of the affected counties. Notably, the response efforts extended to areas such as Machakos and Nairobi, where urgent assistance was promptly delivered.
She highlighted that she is in charge of emergency response in the country and that “we were able to respond to some of the affected counties, including Machakos and Nairobi.”
“We had to send boats to Machakos to rescue people, and from the report I got from the County Commissioner, the mission was successful, we also sent foodstuff to Machakos.”
She said that the Nairobi operation was led by CS Moses Kuria, who stepped in and was able to make significant strides to efficiently deliver essential supplies and food to Mathare, Mukuru kwa Njenga, and Kibera, as she was in Arusha for the consideration of East Africa’s Budget meeting.
“We have discussed Kibera’s agenda with the Nairobi Governor, and he said that they have already given out notice for the people who have built on riparian land to evacuate,” she noted.
The CS highlighted that they have taken proactive steps to activate a multi-agency committee jointly overseen by the Deputy President to actively formulate solutions and foster collaboration with humanitarian organisations such as the Red Cross and the World Food Program. Through collective efforts, she assured that she would make a meaningful impact.
She said that they also activated the National Disaster Operation Centre and are now releasing updates daily at 3 p.m..
By Fatma Said
