Kenya: Kenyan and Ugandan legislators have agreed to strengthen parliamentary cooperation to promote peace, equality, and inclusion across the region. The commitment was made during a consultative engagement between the National Assembly Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity and the Committee on Equal Opportunities from the Parliament of Uganda.
According to Kenya News Agency, Committee Chairperson Mandera West MP Adan Yussuf Haji stated that both countries face similar challenges in promoting equality and protecting vulnerable and marginalised groups. Haji highlighted the importance of closer collaboration between the committees to share experiences and develop practical approaches to these challenges.
Haji emphasized the significant role of Parliament in promoting peaceful coexistence and ensuring equal opportunities for all communities. He noted that stronger cooperation between the two countries would help address issues affecting marginalised and vulnerable groups, especially those crossing national borders.
Lamwaka Catherine, the leader of the Ugandan delegation and Chairperson of the Committee on Equal Opportunities, expressed that the meeting was an opportunity for mutual learning and strengthening the working relationship between the two committees. She underscored the value of peer learning and the exchange of practical parliamentary experiences in promoting equality and non-discrimination.
Catherine pointed out that many challenges in Kenya and Uganda are similar and often extend beyond national borders, making stronger parliamentary engagement crucial for developing effective responses. The legislators called for policies and laws that ensure fairness, inclusion, and protection from discrimination, emphasizing Parliament’s responsibility to safeguard the rights of all citizens.
The two sides agreed to maintain regular engagements and explore areas of mutual interest, recognizing that continued cooperation would enhance regional integration and peaceful coexistence.
