Nyeri Governor Dr Mutahi Kahiga has urged East Africa Local Government Forum (EACGLA) to play a more visible role in the region to help it achieve its objectives.
Dr Kahiga who took over as EACGLA chair from Sanya Kirk Fixer Wilson of Uganda has challenged regional States to give EACGLA a more central role in espousing its agenda including economic integration.
In his acceptance speech, the Governor stated that among his key priorities as chair, would be to push for the transformation of EAGLF into an autonomous body that will play a central role in the East Africa Community member countries.
His speech was read to the EAGLA ministerial Forum in Nairobi by Trans Nzoia Deputy Governor Philemona Bineah.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi was chief guest during the event.
“To be chosen to lead this great association is not a personal victory, it is a collective responsibility. I accept this mandate with gratitude, with humility, and with a firm commitment to serve all our members equally. As I take over the mantle of leadership my first agenda will be to ensure that EACGLA is fully integrated into the EAC agenda – in its policies, its programmes, its calendar, and its decision-making processes,” he stated.
“Our voice must be heard at the EAC table. Our activities must align with the broader vision of regional integration, unity, and development for our people. EACGLA cannot continue to operate on the periphery. We are an integral part of the East African Community family.” added Dr Kahiga.
He also called upon the bloc’s member countries to ensure there was adequate financial support for the operations of the regional body and said delayed funding may hamper attaining their mandate.
He said no institution can run devoid of a well-laid out policy framework buttressed by adequate financing and as therefore member states must be willing to honour their obligation through timely payment of subscriptions in accordance with existing statutes.
Dr Kahiga also promised to work closely with the Secretariat and all affiliate members to ensure there is a transparent, fair, and accountable subscription system in place during his tenure in office.
A person who is nominated as EACGLA chairperson serves for a maximum of two years.
“An association cannot run on goodwill alone. It runs on commitment, and commitment must be demonstrated through the timely payment of subscriptions by all affiliate members. Without subscriptions, we cannot hold meetings, we cannot implement programmes, and we cannot serve our members effectively. Let us honour our obligations. Let us pay our subscriptions on time, because when we invest in EACGLA, we invest in ourselves and in the future of our region., “he said.
The Governor also thanked EACGLA for entrusting him with the position and promised to push the transformation of the body into a critical artery in pushing for advancement of devolved units.
In addition, Kahiga paid glowing tribute to his predecessor for having steered the association into a strong regional forum for the two years he had been at the helm.
“For the last two years, you (Wilson)have steered this association with wisdom, patience, and dedication. Under your stewardship, EACGLA remained united, active, and respected. You laid a foundation upon which we will now build. We honour your service, and we will continue to draw from your counsel,promised Dr Kahiga.
Among resolutions that were arrived at during the Nairobi forum include strengthening the political and fiscal autonomy of local governments, coming up with an actionable EACGLA Corporate Strategy and Implementation Plan for 2026–2031; and a structured capacity development framework for local government leaders.
Apart from the Council of Governors, others who sit in the EACGLA decision making body include ministers or Principal Secretaries for Local Government, Devolution and Regional affairs for EAC, Local Government Associations, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) together with East Africa Youth Network (EAYN).
By Samuel Maina
