This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
Published on June 25, 2021, the East African Community has urged member states to adopt a unified approach in combating the Covid-19 pandemic.
The pandemic has had a significant impact on cross-border trade and the free movement of people within the region.
East African Legislative Assembly Speaker Martin Ngoga emphasized the importance of a harmonized policy, stating, "We call on member states to look at the possibilities of harmonising the measures we take as a region so we have a common approach such that people, even in difficult times of the pandemic, can continue to enjoy the benefits of integration."
However, the region is still grappling with the spread of the virus, with some countries imposing lockdowns while others are opening up their borders.
According to EALA Member of Parliament Denis Namara, the EAC ministers in charge of health met and agreed on how to handle the issue of the pandemic across the region but failed to harmonize the means of handling it.
As early as May 2021, the East African Community Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (SCTIFI) had urged the EAC Regional Coordination Committee to review and harmonize Covid-19 testing charges and the validity and mutual recognition of certificates to ensure the safe and smooth movement of goods and people in the region.
