The nominee for Principal Secretary in the State Department for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, Dr. Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, has expressed her dedication to enhancing regional trade and restoring diplomatic relations within the East African Community.
During her appearance before the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, Karugu was grilled on her strategy for advancing Kenya’s interests in the EAC amidst rising geopolitical tensions and slow trade integration in the region.
Karugu, who previously served as Deputy Governor of Nyeri County from 2018 to 2022, outlined her vision to address the challenges facing the EAC.
In the hearing, Gilgil MP Martha Wangari raised concerns about Kenya's recent strained relations with South Sudan and the lack of regional support during the African Union (AU) Chairperson elections.
"The EAC is in a delicate situation. What are your plans to heal these rifts?" Wangari posed.
The nominee emphasized that lasting peace and stability are essential for fostering regional trade and economic growth.
"For trade to thrive, we must first ensure peace and security. Kenya has always played a leading role in peacekeeping and conflict mediation, and I am committed to continuing and strengthening that tradition," she explained.
She further elaborated on her goal to support regional trade exhibitions and establish stronger collaborations with the Ministry of Trade to enhance intra-EAC commerce.
The Committee members also questioned Karugu about aligning the EAC’s economic objectives with those of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi raised the issue of overlapping trade agreements, such as the EAC Trade Agreement and AfCFTA, particularly regarding Kenya's export sectors like horticulture, tea, and coffee.
"How can Kenya effectively navigate both regional and continental trade agreements?" he inquired.
In response, Karugu underscored the importance of value addition.
"We must focus on adding value to our products, especially in agriculture. For instance, processed goods should have priority over raw exports. Competitiveness hinges on lowering production costs and enhancing product quality," she stated.
Committee Chair Nelson Koech (Belgut) also questioned Karugu’s previous decision to decline a diplomatic post.
"You had earlier declined a diplomatic nomination. Could you explain why?" he asked.
Karugu clarified that her earlier decision was due to personal and family commitments but assured the committee that she was now fully prepared to serve Kenya at the regional level.
The Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations is expected to present its report on the suitability of the nominee to the National Assembly for review on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
