Nairobi, Kenya – The governments of Kenya and Uganda have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and economic development among communities along their shared border. This commitment was formalized in a joint communique signed by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs, ASALS, and Regional Development, Peninah Malonza, and Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Kadaga.

According to Kenya News Agency, the communique emphasizes the strong bilateral relations between Kenya and Uganda. Both Malonza and Kadaga highlighted the significance of cross-border relations for the survival of border communities and directed border control agencies to ease the movement of these communities in accordance with existing regulations.

The officials agreed to swiftly address challenges raised by stakeholders in Busia and directed the implementation of a simplified trade regime to assist small-scale traders. They also discussed the importance of proper checks and certification of fish consignments at Busia One Stop Border Post (OSBP) to facilitate smooth transit to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Additionally, the ministers called for compliance with fishery laws and regulations by fishermen in Lake Victoria, including the avoidance of fishing in breeding areas and the timely registration and licensing of all fisheries activities.

Malonza and Kadaga further emphasized the need to gazette and expedite the opening of additional points of entry along the border to strengthen regional integration. They also instructed officials from both ministries to begin joint sensitization efforts to raise awareness of the East African Integration process.

The leaders agreed to hold bilateral ministerial meetings every six months, rotating between various One-Stop Border Posts. Before signing the joint communiqué, the two teams visited the Busia One Stop Border Post and met with local stakeholders to address their concerns.