A group of 38 cyclists from Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zimbabwe has arrived at the Headquarter Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability (URDC) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja, as part of the Great Africa Cyclists Safari aimed at promoting East African integration.
The group, which includes three women, made Jinja its first stopover during the 9th edition of the cycling expedition, which seeks to promote regional integration and improved livelihoods among East African Community (EAC) citizens.
The Jinja City Deputy Resident City Commissioner Robert Tukamuhebwa encouraged the cyclists to regard themselves as brothers and sisters, noting that African countries face similar socio-economic challenges and therefore need to work together to achieve sustainable development.
Mr. Tukamuhebwa urged the cyclists to use their journey to advocate for deeper EAC integration, including efforts towards a common currency for the region.
“Whatever border you cross, tell the people that everyone is interested in having a common currency for the East African people as part of strategic economic transformation,” he said.
The Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations at URDC, Colonel Joseph Okalebo, said that the EAC integration was making progress, citing cooperation among the military forces of EAC member states through joint exercises and other initiatives.
“In the military, we are already integrating through shared EAC military exercises, and I know that with time we shall achieve this,” he said.
The GACS Expedition Manager, John Baptist Semujju, said this year’s expedition is themed “Promotion of Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens.”
He said the cyclists are covering approximately 6,400 kilometres over 55 days, with the main objective of accelerating the EAC integration process and raising public awareness about the benefits of regional cooperation.
As part of their activities in Jinja, the cyclists also participated in a tree-planting exercise, combining their campaign for regional integration with environmental conservation.
The cyclists were also received by Col Afayoa, Deputy Chief of Staff for Administration; Lt Col Kalyesubula, Administration Officer; Maj CK Agaba; and other officers.
