KAMPALA – Kazo District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Molly Kamukama, has called on the Ugandan government to fast-track key aspects of East African Community (EAC) integration, particularly the establishment of the East African Confederation and Monetary Union.
Kamukama made the remarks during parliamentary proceedings at Parliament in Kampala, where legislators discussed the progress of regional integration and the government’s efforts towards strengthening cooperation among East African Community partner states.
She commended the Deputy Prime Minister for the work undertaken in advancing the regional integration agenda, but urged Uganda to take the lead in implementing critical integration milestones rather than waiting for other partner states to make progress.
“We are Ugandans, and we will speak for Uganda, and we will let others speak for their countries,” Kamukama said, emphasising the need for Uganda to champion its interests while contributing to the wider regional agenda.
She argued that the country should prioritise the implementation of key integration frameworks, including the East African Confederation and Monetary Union, saying these initiatives should at least move forward in principle and on paper as partner states work towards their full implementation.
The Kazo legislator also questioned the effectiveness of the proposed regional electronic platform without a common currency, arguing that continued currency conversions could complicate transactions and create disadvantages among participating countries.
According to Kamukama, differences in the strength of national currencies could result in some partner states benefiting more than others, potentially undermining the objectives of economic integration.
She therefore advocated for the establishment of a single East African currency under a Monetary Union, saying it would simplify transactions and strengthen economic cooperation across the region.
Kamukama further encouraged the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure Uganda fulfils its obligations in the integration process, regardless of the pace at which other member states implement their commitments.
“As Uganda, we should do our part. I want to encourage you, Right Honourable Deputy Prime Minister, that we do our part; let others lag behind, they will catch up,” she submitted.
Her contribution adds to the ongoing parliamentary debate on regional integration, with particular emphasis on the need for Uganda to take practical steps towards achieving deeper economic and political cooperation within the East African Community.
