The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat on July 31, issued a formal warning to Partner States against reversing or restricting commitments made under the EAC Common Market Protocol.
The move follows Kenya’s protest over Tanzania’s ban on foreigners engaging in 15 categories of small-scale business activities.
Kenya’s East African Community Principal Secretary, Dr. Caroline Karugu, confirmed that a formal complaint had been submitted to the EAC Secretariat.
President William Ruto’s government cited violations of the Protocol’s provisions on free movement and establishment of persons and businesses within the region.
Karugu’s complaint to the EAC
“The Order undermines the core objectives of regional economic integration and poses a significant setback to the gains made under the East African Community Common Market Protocol,” Dr. Karugu stated.
“Partner States shall not reverse or restrict sectors and trades they have previously liberalised, as outlined in Annex V of the EAC Common Market Schedule of Commitment,” read part of the press release issued by EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva.
The Secretariat emphasised that any unilateral actions by Partner States directly undermine the spirit of the regional integration agenda.
It noted that such actions were not only contrary to treaty obligations but also threatened to disrupt the functioning of the EAC single market.
EAC says Tanzania’s move was contrary to treaty
“Unilateral backtracking on these commitments is inconsistent with the obligations under the Protocol,” the statement added, citing the reaffirmation of this position by the Attorneys General during the Sectoral Council on Legal and Judicial Matters in November 2024.
Also Read: Ruto Calls Suluhu After Tanzania New Business Laws
The Secretariat further stated it is undertaking an assessment to determine the extent of compliance with Common Market Protocol commitments.
Any inconsistent measures will be presented at the forthcoming meeting of the Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment.
“All Partner States are encouraged to adhere to the obligations they have committed to in order to maintain the integrity of our regional single market,” Nduva said.
Although the EAC press release did not name any country, the timing of the warning comes shortly after Tanzania barred non-citizens from operating small businesses such as retail shops, food vending, welding, and motorcycle repair services.
Also Read: Kenya Warns Tanzania After Ban on Foreigners Operating Small Businesses
The EAC urged all Partner States to align national legislation and administrative actions with regional commitments.
The Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to promoting seamless regional integration through the full implementation of the Common Market Protocol.
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