Kenyan MPs Opt for SGR Travel to Host East African Parliamentary Games in Mombasa
Kenyan Members of Parliament (MPs) have embraced cost-saving measures by opting to travel via the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Mombasa, where they will host the annual East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) parliamentary games.
The event, set to take place in Kenya’s coastal city, brings together legislators from the East African Community (EAC) member states, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DR Congo, and Somalia.
Speaking at the SGR Nairobi Terminus on Friday, the Speaker of Kenya’s National Assembly and President of the Bureau of EAC Speakers, Moses Wetangula highlighted the importance of leading by example in observing austerity measures outlined by President William Ruto.
“We have consciously decided to cut down on the costs of air travel by using the SGR. As leaders, we join the rest of Kenyans in showing that cost-saving measures can benefit the country. We are traveling together, ready to represent Kenya in the games and to bring home trophies,” Wetangula said.
At the same time he said that the games, which involve multiple disciplines, serve as more than just a sporting event.
Wetangula emphasized their role in strengthening regional ties and fostering deeper integration among EAC states,noting that MPs would act as goodwill ambassadors, engaging with their counterparts to harmonize legislative programs and promote regional economic growth.
“These games are a process of widening, deepening, and tightening the East African Community engagement,” he said, adding that beyond the competition, their aim is to achieve key milestones, such as free movement of people, goods and services, a common customs union and a political federation of the region he said.
Additionally,he stated that the event is expected to draw participation from governors of coastal counties including Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Tana River and Lamu.
Wetangula assured Kenyans that the savings from using SGR would be redirected to critical sectors such as food security and healthcare.
Unfortunately, Wetangula reported an accident involving a bus carrying delegates from Tanzania. He expressed concern and assured that necessary measures were being taken to address the situation.
“As MPs gear up for the games, they aim to strengthen unity within the EAC and demonstrate the spirit of collaboration that underpins the regional bloc,” he said.
He reiterated that the week-long event will foster cooperation and the key elements in achieving the shared vision of East African integration.
