At least 3,500 MPs and their support staff from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, South Sudan, Somalia and DR Congo are participating in the competition
President William Ruto arrived in Mombasa on Saturday to open the 14th edition of the East African Community (EAC) inter-parliamentary sports games and was quick to call on East African Community (EAC) member states to back Raila Odinga’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC).
The games, being staged in Mombasa, started on Friday, December 6 and will continue until December 18.
At least six venues will be used for the games with more venues for training identified for the eight sports disciplines including football, netball, volleyball, basketball, darts, athletics, tug-of-war and golf.
Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and the MPs travelled to Mombasa on Friday for the games via the Standard Gauge Railway.
The competition seeks to enhance collaborations between the EAC community.
President William Ruto , took off time to demonstrate his exceptional running prowess while officially opening the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa. During a 100 meter race Uganda’s Speaker Anita Ann Among , Tanzania’s Speaker Amason Kingi,, and Kenya’s Moses Wetang’ula , president Ruto outshone them all.
He showed his prowess in running, leaving the crowd in Mombasa cheering him on after he was announced the winner.
Speaking during the opening of 14th edition of the EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games – President Ruto emphasized that Odinga’s extensive experience and dedication to pan-African ideals make him the consummate candidate to lead the continental body.
Ruto underscored that Odinga’s victory would demonstrate the region’s collective resolve and strengthen its voice on the continental stage in matters development and policies.“Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, is vying for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission. His vast experience, dedication to pan-African ideals, and commitment to fostering integration make him an excellent candidate,” said Ruto.
“I call upon all EAC Partner States to rally behind his candidacy. His leadership will give East Africa a stronger voice on the continental stage, enabling us to champion our shared priorities, protect our interests, and accelerate Africa’s development agenda.”
The call for regional unity around Odinga’s bid came as President Ruto reflected on the broader themes of integration and cooperation within the EAC, highlighting the importance of solidarity in achieving shared goals.Ruto, who assumed the position of Chair of the Summit of East African Community (EAC) Heads of State last week in Arusha, Tanzania, reiterated the significance of the Inter-Parliamentary Games in fostering mutual trust and friendship.
He said: “The camaraderie and competitive spirit on display here reflect the values that underpin our collective vision for a united, prosperous, and peaceful East African Community.”
“Equally important, these games provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen our spirit of solidarity and deepen the bonds of friendship as neighbours and partners.”
President Ruto noted that the games, which bring together leaders from EAC member states, serve as a platform to celebrate the region’s unity while addressing critical issues such as economic integration and trade.
Odinga who officially launched his AUC campaigns and manifesto last month in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is running for the AUC seat to succeed outgoing Moussa Faki Mahamat.
He is set to participate in the upcoming Mjadala Afrika Leadership televised debate at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on December 13, 2024 where he will face off against two other candidates; Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti) and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.
