By Shadrack Nyakoe
Members of Kenya’s Parliament on Friday boarded the Madaraka Express from the Nairobi SGR Terminus en route to Mombasa for the East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games. The contingent, led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, departed at 10:00 am, marking the start of a significant event aimed at fostering regional integration and cooperation.
Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip J. Mainga and other senior officials were present to see off the MPs, who paused for a photo session and engaged with the media before departure.
Speaking during the send-off, Speaker Wetang’ula highlighted the significance of the event, which draws participants from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia. “The games are not just about winning trophies,” he said. “They are a chance for us to deepen the engagement within the East African region, harmonize our legislative programs, and promote regional economic growth, integration, and unity.”
The games, which will run from December 7 to December 18, 2024, feature competitions in athletics, soccer, tug-of-war, and indoor sports. Venues for the games include Mbaraki Stadium, Mombasa Sports Club, and the Aga Khan Academy.
President William Ruto is scheduled to officially open the event on Saturday at the Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa. The EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games, established in 2009 by the EAC Bureau of Speakers, are hosted annually on a rotational basis by member countries.
This year’s edition aims to strengthen ties between EAC member states while providing a platform for MPs to engage in friendly competition and cultural exchange. Participants are expected to serve as goodwill ambassadors for their respective nations, fostering unity, understanding, and regional cooperation.
As the MPs embark on the journey to Mombasa, they carry with them not only the hopes of sporting success but also the broader mission of promoting East African solidarity and integration.