The Bureau of East African Community Speakers plays a crucial role in fostering interaction and collaboration among the EAC member states. The recent meeting in Nairobi highlighted the importance of language in these discussions, with English, French, and Kiswahili being debated as the official languages for addressing the Bureau.
During the 18th Bureau meeting, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula was elected chairman, succeeding Tanzania’s Tulia Ackson. The issue of language arose when Burundi’s Abel Gashatis requested to speak in French, while Tanzania’s Ackson preferred Kiswahili. This prompted a discussion on the official languages of the EAC, as stipulated in Article 137 of the Treaty.
While English is the official language of the EAC, efforts have been made to elevate French to a lingua franca status due to the predominance of French-speaking member states. Wetang’ula allowed Gashatis to speak in French, with his speech being translated into English by Burundi’s Senate Speaker, Emmanuel Sinzohagera.
Linguistic challenges have been a recurring issue within the EAC, with disagreements over the translation of documents and the proficiency of French language speakers. Efforts have been made to improve French language proficiency within the bloc, with support from the French government to make French an official language alongside English.
In his address, Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of regional integration and parliamentary diplomacy in fostering cooperation and development within the EAC. The upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa aim to strengthen relations between Eala and national parliaments, as well as promote EAC integration.
Eala Speaker Joseph Ntakirutimana highlighted the challenges faced in implementing common market protocols, such as delays at border crossings and high air ticket prices within the region. Despite these challenges, the EAC continues to grow and evolve, with a commitment to building a stronger and more resilient East African Community.
