EAC Headsof State to meet in Arusha

The Ordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State convenes in Arusha, Tanzania, tomorrow. The leaders are expected to receive and deliberate on different reports, including the Monetary Union Protocol and extension of East African Court of Justice jurisdiction.The Summit is the supreme organ of EAC.The meeting, that was earlier slated for today, was extended due to Tanzania’s 49th Anniversary of the union with Zanzibar.Speaking from Arusha, Rwanda’s Minister for EAC Affairs Monique Mukaruliza said the issue of single currency, which has been outstanding, would be tabled before it is signed in November during another summit.“The negotiations are over; there are just small issues that need to be sorted out by regional finance ministers before it’s signed in November,” she said.If it is approved, the bloc will be using the same currency across borders. The rationale for single currency is to reduce the costs and risks of transacting business across national boundaries of regional member states.The presidents will also receive a progressive report on the implementation of the directive of the summit on extension of the jurisdiction of the East African Court of Justice, according to the minister.The Summit is also expected to endorse the newly-nominated deputy EAC Secretary-General Charles Jackson Njoroge from Kenya to replace Dr Julius Rotich, who has been in charge of political federation.The EAC presidents will also recommend the next principal judge of the east African Court of Justice to replace Justice Johnson Busingye whose five-year- term has ended. The rotational position is expected to be filled by a Burundian.Dr Faustin Nteziryayo from Rwanda was also approved by Cabinet to become judge in the regional court based in Arusha.

National

EAC Headsof State to meet in Arusha