By Geof Magga
South Sudan has made overtures to join the East African Community, as it moves to strengthen its economy, three months after attaining its independence.
James Igga Wani/Photo/Reuters
A South Sudanese delegation paid a courtesy call on the Ugandan Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga on Monday, expressing their desire to join the EAC.
The leader of Sudanese delegation, who is also the speaker of the Southern Sudan parliament, James Igga Wani said joining the community will enhance utilisation of the new state’s independence, as the country shared common interests with the other member states.
"Southern Sudan shares a lot with other east African member states.
"It is for that reason that we want to join the East African Community," he said.
Meanwhile Kadaga assured South Sudan that Uganda would support its bid to join the EAC, but advised them to apply officially.
"As speakers from member countries we have already tackled the issue and are willing to support the admission of South Sudan into the cooperation," she said.
If admitted, South Sudan will be the sixth member state in the EAC after Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi.
Rwanda and Burundi are the newest members of the EAC.
The economic bloc started in the 1960’s, with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania being the founding members.