Speaker Moses Wetang’ula .

By I.P. Reporter

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 14th Edition of the East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games held at the Pride Inn Paradise in Mombasa, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula underscored the pivotal role of legislative leadership in realizing the vision of a united and prosperous East Africa.

He called on Members of Parliament across the EAC bloc to be intentional in passing and implementing legislation that promotes the freedom of association, the free movement of goods and services, and the establishment of a common currency.

These, he noted, are the foundational pillars for achieving meaningful regional integration.

Speaker Wetang’ula highlighted the importance of parliamentary powers in driving this integration, particularly through legislation and budget allocation, emphasizing that these tools are essential for achieving the EAC’s collective dreams.

He praised President of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, for his steadfast support of the games and commended his symbolic participation in the first sprint event during the opening ceremony.

Wetang’ula remarked that such actions demonstrated leadership by example and reinforced the spirit of regional unity.

Reflecting on the significance of the games, Wetang’ula stated that beyond competition, these tournaments symbolize the collaboration and cultural diversity that binds East Africans together.

He reminded participants that the EAC, with its population of over 500 million people, holds immense potential.

“East Africa produces what it does not consume and consumes what it does not produce,” he said, pointing to the need for deeper economic integration and policy coherence.

Quoting the esteemed scholar Ali Mazrui, Wetang’ula said, “East Africa is not just a geographical entity; it is a concept in human history.”

He called upon all EAC member states to continue the legacy of the region’s founding fathers—leaders like Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere—by strengthening regional unity.

Games Overview and Analysis.

During the event, Speaker Wetang’ula recognized outstanding performances.

He praised Hon. Sadiki from the Tanzanian team for his exceptional football skills and Hon. Senator Aron Cheruiyot from the Kenyan team for his commendable talent on the field.

He noted that these performances reflect the dedication and skill within the EAC fraternity.

This year’s games included various categories such as football, netball, volleyball, athletics, and tug-of-war. Notable statistics from the event include:

Football: The Tanzanian team clinched victory with a dominant display throughout the tournament, winning 3 out of 4 matches.

Netball: Uganda emerged victorious, showcasing remarkable coordination and agility.

Athletics: Kenyan participants excelled in sprints and long-distance events, securing 7 gold medals overall.

Volleyball: Rwanda displayed resilience and teamwork, taking home the championship trophy.

Speaker Wetang’ula congratulated all winners and commended the spirit of sportsmanship exhibited.

He also expressed gratitude to the leadership of Mombasa, specifically Hon. Mishi Mboko, Hon. Zam Zam, Hon. Ali, and Speaker Amason Kingi, for their outstanding organizational efforts.

He concluded by encouraging youth across the region to draw inspiration from the games, aspiring to excellence in both sports and leadership.

He thanked the event organizers, captains, and participants for their contributions to the success of the games.

Distinguished attendees included the Speaker of the Senate, Hon. Amason Kingi; Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Hon. Joseph Ntakirutimana; Cabinet Secretary for EAC, Hon. Beatrice Askul; and delegation heads from the Parliaments of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and EALA.

Wetang’ula reiterated: “Together, we move forward as one region, one EAC, one people.”

Ends.