Editor

Allow me to respond to a story that appeared in yesterday’s issue of The New Times titled "Rwanda, Uganda keen to eliminate trade barriers”.  I would like to point out that these bottlenecks are the single largest setback holding back the success of EAC integration.

On paper, integration sounds easy, but when it comes to both importers and exporters within the region, the picture is different especially due to bureaucracy along the borders, corruption and high transport charges.

We understand that the EAC borders have fully automated their customs offices and the checking of goods on transit. These good ICT practices should effectively be put to good use to ensure that traders face as minimal inconviniences as possible.

I hope that EAC governments continue to unreservedly ensure that all non trade barriers are eradicated within the set timeframe. 

Innocent Badege
Kimuhurura