This archive report was first published on 24 October 2021.
On October 24, 2021, Antony Manyara was sworn in as the president of the East African Student's Union (EASU) at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
Manyara, a former University of Nairobi Students Union leader, took oath to lead the regional organization that comprises the Uganda National Students' Association (UNSA), Kenya Universities Students' Organisation (KUSA), Burundi National Students Union (BNSU), Tanzania Higher Learning Institutions Students' Organisation (TAHLISO), South Sudan General Students' Union (SSGSU), and the Rwanda National Students' Association and INTAGAMBURUNZWA National Coordination (INC).
During his inauguration, Manyara highlighted the challenges in cross-border movement, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. He also emphasized the need for the inclusion of youths in more activities by EAC Partner States.
Manyara stated, 'A prosperous EAC is beneficial for us all. We as students have the time and energy of learning and understanding how the EAC works and are keen on supporting the regional integration process.'
Joshua Mafabi, the EASU's Executive Secretary, noted that the Union will form regional students' clubs to nurture the vision of the EAC's Founding Fathers. He added, 'For the EAC integration process to reach to the grassroots, students have a huge role to play and we are keen on pushing for this.'
The student unions in the East African Community partner States have committed to work closely with the EAC Secretariat to amplify the voice of students in the regional integration process.
Speaking during the ceremony, EAC Secretary General Dr. Peter Mathuki commended the students for their zeal and interest in contributing towards the integration process. He stated, 'With youths constituting over 60% of the Community's population, it is clear that the Community belongs to the youth and thus the EAC is keen on involving them in policy and decision making.'
Dr. Mathuki informed the students of the existence of the EAC Youth Policy, which was adopted in August 2013. He added that the policy provides a binding framework for the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of youth programs and projects.
Dr. Mathuki also urged the student leaders to follow up on youth activities in the region, including the upcoming YouLead Summit slated for November 8-12, 2021. He stated, 'The theme of this year's YouLead Summit is, 'The Future of Africa: Creating Jobs, Feeding and Housing the World's Youngest Continent.' It is important that the students also take part in this and contribute to the agenda.'
Also present at the event was the EAC Principal Education Officer, Dr. James Jowi, and EALA Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Ngoga, who commended the newly sworn-in EASU Executive Committee for conceptualizing the idea of forming a regional students' union keen on participating in regional issues.
