By Cynthia Masibo
In a bid to foster regional integration and economic growth, the Peer to Peer Conference was recently held, attracting a diverse group of stakeholders from the East African Community (EAC).
The conference aimed to promote the free movement of services across the EAC, a strategic objective crucial for the region’s development.
One of the major attendees was Ambassador Ring Deng Kuol, representing South Sudan. His participation underscored the significance of including South Sudan in regional dialogues and highlighted the country’s commitment to EAC’s goals.
During his address, Mr Kuol shared key insights and takeaways from the event, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve the EAC’s vision.
The conference brought together policymakers, business leaders, and representatives from various sectors to discuss the barriers and opportunities related to the free movement of services within the EAC. The event was marked by robust discussions on policy harmonization, regulatory frameworks, and the role of technology in facilitating cross-border service provision.
Mr Kuol highlighted the need for harmonized policies and regulatory frameworks across EAC member states. He noted that inconsistent regulations and bureaucratic hurdles often impede the seamless movement of services. Harmonization would not only simplify processes for service providers but also enhance the region’s attractiveness to foreign investors.
“Achieving policy harmonization requires a concerted effort from all member states,” said Mr Kuol.
“It’s about creating a conducive environment where businesses can operate smoothly across borders, thus boosting regional trade and economic growth.”
Another significant takeaway from the conference was the emphasis on capacity building and skills development. Mr. Kuol stressed that to fully capitalize on the benefits of free movement of services, there must be a focus on equipping the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge. This includes investing in education and training programs tailored to the needs of the EAC’s service sectors.
“We must invest in our human capital to ensure that our workforce is prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic service industry,” he said. “This will not only enhance service quality but also create employment opportunities and drive economic growth.”
Mr. Kuol also highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnerships among EAC member states. He noted that achieving the goal of free movement of services requires collective action and mutual support. This involves sharing best practices, fostering public-private partnerships, and engaging in continuous dialogue to address emerging challenges.
The Peer to Peer Conference served as a platform for meaningful discussions on promoting the free movement of services within the EAC. With key insights from representatives like Mr. Ring Deng Kuol, the event highlighted the critical steps needed to achieve this strategic objective.
As the EAC continues to pursue regional integration, the conference underscored the importance of policy harmonization, technological advancements, capacity building, and collaborative efforts.
