EABC’s Kalisa on how to reintegrate EAC economy principles

The East African Community (EAC) has been grappling with trade tensions among its member states, hindering intra-regional trade and impacting the region's ability to compete globally. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, John Bosco-Kalisa, the CEO of the East African Business Council (EABC), shed light on how the organization is working to address these challenges and promote economic growth within the region. Kalisa highlighted the EABC's role in advocating for the upholding of common market protocols and resolving trade disputes between member states. One of the recent issues addressed by the EABC was the trade of maize from Tanzania to Kenya. Kalisa mentioned that EABC intervention has led to a smoother flow of maize between the two countries, resulting in increased trade activities at the Kenya-Tanzania border. He emphasized the importance of political commitment and awareness in resolving trade tensions and ensuring free circulation of goods within the EAC. Moreover, Kalisa discussed efforts to harmonize policies and regulations governing trade across the EAC. He commended the initiatives of the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary in charge of transport to reduce taxes at airports, aiming to lower air transport costs and promote trade within the region. However, he pointed out discrepancies within the EAC, citing Uganda's recent increase in airport taxes, which may hinder efforts to facilitate easier movement of goods and people across member states. On a positive note, Kalisa highlighted Tanzania's operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement. He expressed the EABC's enthusiasm for this milestone, emphasizing the significant opportunities it presents for the private sector within the EAC. Kalisa noted the game-changing potential of the AfCFTA in advancing regional integration and driving economic growth in the EAC. Looking ahead, the EABC is set to engage private sector members across the region to explore and capitalize on the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA. With Tanzania leading the way in operationalizing the agreement, Kalisa commended the country's efforts and underscored the EAC's readiness to leverage the benefits of the continental free trade area. In conclusion, Kalisa reiterated the importance of regional cooperation, policy harmonization, and the removal of barriers to trade to foster economic development within the EAC. By working together and aligning efforts towards a common goal, the EABC and its member states aim to create a conducive environment for trade, investment, and sustainable growth in the East African region.