The lifting of the visa requirement for citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by Kenya and Tanzania is news that is generating interest. This decision, which is part of the Protocol on the Common Market of the East African Community (EAC), will allow greater fluidity of trade and strengthen regional integration.
The positive reaction of the EAC Secretary-General, Dr Peter Mathuki, testifies to the importance of this measure for the region. By promoting the free movement of people and workers, it will help boost trade and improve the well-being of EAC citizens.
However, the absence of Uganda among the countries that have lifted the visa requirement raises questions. While all EAC member states have committed to facilitating free movement, Uganda still maintains visa requirements for Congolese. This cautious position can be explained by several factors.
First, Uganda’s security concerns due to its border with eastern DRC, an unstable region controlled by armed groups. Kampala fears that lifting visas will facilitate uncontrolled cross-border movements, and prefers to maintain strict controls to ensure the country’s security.
Then, the already existing migratory pressure in Uganda constitutes another element to take into account. Being a dynamic economy in the region, Uganda already attracts many Congolese migrants. Easing access to visas could lead to an even greater influx of migrants, requiring additional investment in public services to cope with this demographic reality.
Finally, Uganda can also use the visa issue as leverage in regional negotiations. By keeping this card in hand, she can demand concessions from the DRC and other EAC countries in exchange for a possible lifting of visa requirements.
However, it is essential that Uganda sooner or later joins Kenya and Tanzania in lifting visas. Reciprocity in terms of free movement is a sine qua non condition for the realization of the ambitions of a true East African common market. Regional cooperation and integration are crucial to fostering the economic and social development of the entire EAC.
In conclusion, the decision by Kenya and Tanzania to lift the visa requirement for DRC citizens constitutes an important step towards regional integration in East Africa. Although Uganda has legitimate grounds for maintaining strict controls, it is essential that it joins its neighbors in this initiative to ensure truly free movement of people and strengthen the region’s economic and social integration.