Kampala, (UG):- Sheema Municipality MP, Hon. Dickson Kateshumbwa who is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on EAC Affairs (PFEACA), has been urged to intensify efforts in raising public awareness about the benefits of East African integration.
In an open letter dated February 3, 2025, renowned regional integration activist, Mivule Ronald praised Hon. Kateshumbwa for his outstanding leadership, both as the representative of Sheema and as the head of PFEACA.
Mivule described the legislator as an astute leader who has contributed immensely to regional affairs. He, however, expressed concern that many East Africans remain unaware of the opportunities and benefits of regional integration.
He urged PFEACA to organize more public engagement activities throughout the year to educate citizens about the East African Community (EAC) and its potential impact on their daily lives.
“The purpose of this open communication is to request PFEACA to consider organizing more activities this year that engage the populace in regard to the affairs of the EAC,” Mivule wrote.
“It is very evident that many East Africans are not very conversant with the benefits of integration, but with continuous sensitization, what seems like a facade will eventually be seen as a reality,” he added.
Mivule emphasized that lack of information remains one of the biggest hindrances to full citizen participation in the EAC’s programs. He noted that while policies and agreements are signed at the government level, the ordinary East African citizen remains detached from the decision-making processes.
The activist further highlighted that integration efforts should not just focus on high-level political dialogues but must extend to the grassroots, ensuring that traders, farmers, students, and professionals all understand and benefit from regional cooperation.
“We need to see more town hall meetings, radio talk shows, and community-based workshops that simplify the concept of integration for the people. Many traders still struggle with cross-border challenges because they are not aware of their rights under EAC agreements,” he said.
While Uganda has played a pivotal role in the advancement of the EAC agenda, being home to the regional bloc’s key decision-makers, Mivule stressed that the country must take a more proactive stance in ensuring that its citizens reap tangible benefits from the partnership.
He urged the government, local leaders, and civil society organizations to join hands in fostering awareness and promoting deeper economic ties between Uganda and its EAC neighbors.
“We need a Uganda that does not just participate in EAC meetings but also ensures that its people fully understand and use the opportunities that come with regional integration,” Mivule remarked.
Mivule’s call for increased sensitization comes at a time when discussions on regional trade, free movement, and economic cooperation within the EAC are intensifying. With border challenges, taxation disparities, and business restrictions still hindering full integration, experts argue that informing and engaging citizens is crucial for progress.
Efforts to reach Hon. Kateshumbwa for comment on the appeal were unsuccessful at the time of publication but Mivule assured that the legislator had received the open letter and only awaiting to see action being taken.
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