Kenya’s President William Ruto has praised the East African Community’s (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games as a vital tool for fostering regional unity and showcasing the importance of sports in strengthening bonds between nations.
Speaking at the official opening of the 14th Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa, President Ruto emphasized the role of sports in promoting solidarity, cooperation, and understanding among the EAC’s eight member states: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia.
The 12-day event brings together legislators from these countries to compete in football, netball, volleyball, basketball, athletics, and other disciplines. The games aim to deepen the region’s cohesion while promoting a shared vision of regional integration and development.
“These games are not just about competition; they are about building friendships, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening the fabric of our community as East Africans,” said President Ruto. “Sports unite us, reminding us that we are stronger together.”
The President underlined that the Inter-Parliamentary Games reflect the spirit of teamwork and collective effort needed to drive the integration and prosperity of the EAC.
Drawing a parallel between the games and regional governance, he remarked, “Just as a team must work in harmony to achieve victory, our nations must align efforts to unlock the full potential of East Africa.”
President Ruto also highlighted the broader role of sports in driving social and economic progress. The games, he noted, are an embodiment of the values enshrined in the EAC Treaty, which aims to enhance collaboration, foster trade, and improve the quality of life for the region’s people.
He further reiterated Kenya’s commitment to supporting regional and continental initiatives that position East Africa as a leader in Africa’s integration.
His remarks came as the region continues to implement critical infrastructure projects, such as the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway and the proposed dual carriageway linking Tanzania and Kenya.
“These initiatives will strengthen our connectivity, accelerate trade, and make the EAC the engine of Africa’s development,” Ruto said.
The President also acknowledged the importance of the games in reinforcing the EAC’s vision of a cohesive and competitive region. By bringing together legislators through sport, the games offer a unique opportunity to foster understanding and collaboration across diverse cultures and communities.
“This is a chance for us to reaffirm our shared identity as East Africans,” President Ruto noted. “Through sports, we celebrate not only our diversity but also our unity and collective strength.”
