The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called upon leaders in the East African region to follow Kenya’s example in rejecting colonial-era boundaries, advocating for a borderless Africa to foster socio-economic transformation.
Gachagua emphasized that facilitating unrestricted movement would promote seamless trade, especially under the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, and encourage collaboration for the collective benefit of the African people.
Rejecting the limitations imposed by colonial borders, Gachagua highlighted Kenya’s decision to eliminate visa requirements for Africans visiting the country. He stressed the importance of transcending national borders, asserting that breaking down boundary barriers offers more advantages than closed-door policies.
Speaking at the Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar during the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Zanzibar Revolution, Gachagua represented President William Ruto. The event was attended by regional leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan of the United Republic of Tanzania, and Dr. Hussein Mwinyi of Zanzibar, along with Burundi Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca.
Gachagua, accompanied by his spouse Pastor Dorcas Rigathi and a group of MPs, emphasized the significance of a Visa-Free regime within African countries, envisioning a considerable boost in intra-Africa trade and enhanced market accessibility, leading to a more balanced trade among nations.
He acknowledged the strong trade relations between Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania, expressing optimism about the positive impact of a Visa-Free Regime on the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, in which both Kenya and Tanzania are active participants. Tanzania serves as a crucial export market for Kenya, and Gachagua believes that a Visa-Free Regime will further strengthen trade ties.
The Deputy President expressed confidence in the potential of a borderless Africa initiative to facilitate the free flow of socio-economic activities, fostering growth as East African countries prepare for the African Cup of Nations. He commended Tanzania for its bilateral relations and cooperation within the East African Community, highlighting the efforts to deepen collaboration for the socio-economic transformation of the people in the region.
Accompanying DP Gachagua were MPs Owen Baya (Kilifi North), Michael Muchira (Ol Jororok), Letipila Eli (Samburu North), Rachel Nyamai (Kitui South), Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), Jane Njeri (Kirinyaga County MP), and Cynthia Muge (Nandi County MP).”
