This is the first time for the Zanzibar archipelago to host the EALA as part of its rotational principle which serves as the second meeting of the Fifth Session of the Third Assembly.

Some Tanzanian members of EALA come from Zanzibar, which is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.

EALA Sittings are held under the principle of rotation as per Article 55 of the East African Community (EAC) Treaty. EALA meets at least once in every year at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha.
Addressing journalists in the Zanzibar archipelago, EALA Speaker Daniel Kidega said the Assembly is expected to discuss three key Bills — EAC Gender Equality and Development Bill 2016, EAC Trafficking in Persons Bill 2016 and the EAC Polythene Materials Control Bill 2016.

According to Kidega, there will be a number of reports which are expected to be discussed and debated before the House.

The EAC Counter-Trafficking in Persons Bill 2016 seeks to provide a legal framework, develop common measures, strategies and programs to the prevention of trafficking in persons and the perpetrators of such actions.

The Bill is to further develop partnerships for co-operation in counter-trafficking in persons and provision of protection mechanisms and services for persons.

The EAC Polythene Materials Control Bill 2016 moved by Patricia Hajabakiga aims to provide a legal framework for the preservation of a clean and healthy environment through the prohibition of manufacturing, sale, importation and use of polythene materials. The Bill was re-introduced during the Sitting held in August in Arusha.

The EAC Gender Equality and Development Bill 2016 on its part sets out to make provision for gender equality, protection and development in the Community.

Source: News Ghana

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