The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and SEATINI Uganda have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at advancing inclusive trade, strengthening regional integration, and ensuring that East Africa’s trade policies deliver tangible benefits for citizens.
The collaboration was sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Arusha, Tanzania, establishing a framework for closer cooperation between the regional legislative body and the trade policy organization.
The agreement seeks to strengthen evidence-based policymaking by promoting joint research, policy dialogue, technical support, capacity building, and resource mobilization. Through these initiatives, both institutions intend to contribute to a more people-centered approach to regional trade and integration.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, SEATINI Uganda Executive Director Jane Nalunga said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that regional integration translates into meaningful opportunities for citizens, particularly women, youth, small businesses, and informal cross-border traders.
According to Nalunga, the partnership will support the development of gender-responsive trade and investment policies while enhancing collaboration with EALA in promoting equitable economic growth throughout the East African Community.
The MoU also positions the two institutions to work together on strengthening legislative oversight of trade policies and improving stakeholder engagement on issues affecting regional commerce.
As the East African Community continues implementing regional integration initiatives alongside opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stakeholders believe stronger collaboration between policymakers and civil society will be essential in addressing barriers that limit participation in cross-border trade.
The partnership is expected to contribute to the formulation of policies that encourage sustainable economic development, facilitate investment, and improve market access while ensuring that the benefits of regional trade are shared more broadly across East African communities.
By combining EALA’s legislative mandate with SEATINI Uganda’s expertise in trade policy and advocacy, the two organizations aim to promote a more inclusive regional trading environment that supports economic resilience and long-term development across the East African Community.
