N.A. Speaker Dr. Moses Wetang’ula juggles the ball at the breakfast meetimg.
By I.P. reporter.
NAIROBI .
Kenya’s Parliament is not just vying for trophies at the East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games, but also signaling its commitment to regional integration and the free movement of people, goods, and services.
During a breakfast meeting in Nairobi, National Assembly Speaker Dr. Moses Wetang’ula underscored the significance of the event, which kicks off on December 6, 2024, in Mombasa County.
Wetang’ula, who serves as co-patron of the Bunge Sports Club, emphasized the role of sports in fostering unity among EAC member states.
“This is more than just a competition,” Wetang’ula said.
“It is a demonstration of our collective commitment to regional integration. The free movement of people, goods, and services within our region is a goal we must all work towards. This event showcases the strong partnerships among our leaders in building a united East Africa.”
Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen echoed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, highlighting the event’s potential to promote Kenya as a tourist destination.
“The Inter-Parliamentary Games offer us an opportunity to not only bond as legislators but also showcase Kenya’s rich culture and hospitality,” Murkomen said.
He pointed out that Mombasa, where the games will take place, is a prime example of Kenya’s tourism appeal.
“With the event taking place in Mombasa, participants and visitors will experience our world-class attractions, from beaches to marine parks, and the renowned warmth of our people,” he added.
Murkomen also stressed the role of sports in building regional cohesion and underscored the importance of such events in driving national economic growth.
Indirectly, he urged participants and stakeholders to use the games as a platform to amplify Kenya’s profile internationally.
“This is not just about competition but about creating lasting relationships and showcasing Kenya’s leadership in the region,” he noted.
Tourism and Economic Boost.
The influx of visitors from eight countries presents an economic opportunity for Kenya’s tourism sector.
Mombasa, a key tourist hub, is expected to benefit from increased bookings in hotels, tours, and local businesses.
If approximately 1,000 delegates and spectators, including teams, officials, and media representatives, spend an average of $500 each on accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment, Kenya could generate approximately $500,000 (KSh 75 million) during the event.
This figure does not include indirect economic benefits such as local employment and future tourism stimulated by media coverage of the event.
Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge urged media houses to leverage the games to market Kenya’s tourism potential.
Wetang’ula further encouraged MPs to use the event as a platform to advance the EAC Protocol on the free movement of people, goods, and services.
The breakfast meeting was attended by members of the Bunge Sports Club, captains of various disciplines, and sports journalists.
The EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games will run until Dec. 13, fostering regional camaraderie through athletics, football, volleyball, and other sports.
Ends.
