The United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Tuesday announced plans to assist the East African Community (EAC) partner states enhance free movement of people within the bloc.

The funding of £507,000 ($821,000) from DFID will allow IOM support the EAC Secretariat strengthen it capacity to address migration issues.

A statement released on Tuesday notes that DFID signed an agreement with IOM, to contribute towards efforts to ensure free and safe movement of people between EAC partner states while tackling issues such as irregular migration, smuggling, human trafficking and labour migration.

"The British Government supports the aspirations of East Africa for a strong and prosperous East African Community. It’s exciting to see these ambitions lead to tangible actions like the Common Market Protocol.

"Allowing people to migrate freely will stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty. We look forward to working with the EAC Secretariat, Partner States, and the International Organisation of Migration to make sure people benefit from these opportunities and the risks are managed.” Alistair Fernie, Head of the DFID Kenya office

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