A committee of the National Assembly has approved the ratification of the African Union Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation (Niamey Convention) to bolster trade and investment in border towns.
The National Assembly Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee said that the ratification of the treaty will enhance cross-border cooperation for economic growth in border towns.
The committee argued that since the convention encourages member states to develop mechanisms for promoting trade, investment and economic cooperation, amending it will go a long way in facilitating trade across borders.
The convention, among other things, advocates for trade across borders through the facilitation of the movement of goods, services and capital, as well as harmonizing trade policies and regulations.
The Belgut MP further emphasized the Convention’s alignment with Kenya’s existing efforts.
“The Niamey Convention strengthens these efforts and creates a legal framework for further collaboration,” he added.
So far, about 19 African nations have signed the Convention and only eight ratifications are needed for it to take effect.
The committee made the proposal following a report tabled by Mandera North MP Bashir Abdullahi which underlined the Convention’s compatibility with the goals of the East African Community (EAC).
Abdullahi said that the ratification of the convention will go a long way in building and promoting economic cooperation agreements in border towns like Namanga, Busia, and Mandera.
The National Assembly is expected to debate the report in the coming days.
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