𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀

𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟭𝟰𝘁𝗵 𝟮𝟬24

A National Assembly Committee has recommended the ratification of the African Union Convention on Cross Border Cooperation (Niamey Convention).

The Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee is pushing for the Ratification of the treaty that promotes enhanced Cross-border cooperation for economic growth in border towns. 

In it's Report, the Committee acknowledges that the Convention encourages member states to develop mechanisms for promoting trade, investment, and economic cooperation across borders.which includes facilitating the movement of goods, services, and capital, as well as harmonizing trade policies and regulations. 

Committee Chair Hon. Nelson Koech (Belgut) noted that "Cross-border cooperation greatly contributes to the development of the border area zones, which tend to be less economically developed. The Convention allows for economic growth in border areas through the creation of employment opportunities and infrastructural development."

Defence Committee's report emphasized the Convention's alignment with Kenya's existing efforts. "Kenya has already demonstrated its commitment to cross-border cooperation through initiatives like the Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) and the Joint Border Commissioners /Administrative Committees," stated Hon. Koech. "The Niamey Convention strengthens these efforts and creates a legal framework for further collaboration."

Thus far, 19 African nations have signed the Convention and only eight ratifications are needed for it to take effect.

The report tabled by Mandera North MP and Vice Chair Hon. Bashir Abdullahi underlines the Convention's compatibility with the goals of the East African Community (EAC), whose economic cooperation agreements have spurred growth in border towns like Namanga, Busia, and Mandera.

The National Assembly is expected to debate the Report in the coming days.