Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called for stronger regional cooperation to promote peace, good governance and youth empowerment across Eastern Africa, saying the three pillars are essential for sustainable development and economic growth.
Mudavadi spoke on behalf of President William Ruto during the opening of the 21st Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in East Africa (AMECEA) Plenary Assembly held at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi.
The gathering brought together Catholic Church leaders from across the region to deliberate on the future of Eastern Africa, with this year’s assembly focusing on youth mentorship, peacebuilding and governance.
Addressing delegates, Mudavadi emphasized that peace is more than the absence of conflict, describing it as the foundation upon which nations build thriving economies and secure opportunities for future generations.
“This year’s focus on youth mentorship, peacebuilding and governance comes at a defining moment for our region. By equipping young people with the right values, skills and opportunities, while strengthening good governance and promoting peaceful coexistence, we can unlock Africa’s immense potential and secure a more stable and prosperous future,” he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary expressed concern over persistent conflicts in parts of the region, noting that violence continues to claim lives, displace families and deny millions of young people access to education and economic opportunities.
He said peace, governance and development are closely interconnected, arguing that sustainable economic progress cannot be achieved without stability.
“Peace creates the conditions for investment and economic growth, good governance sustains stability and public trust, while inclusive development reinforces both,” Mudavadi noted.
He added that Kenya remains committed to investing in education, skills development, entrepreneurship and job creation as part of efforts to empower young people.
Mudavadi further urged East African countries to strengthen collaboration in creating opportunities for the youth, saying regional partnerships would help drive innovation, enterprise and lasting peace.
He said greater cooperation among countries in the region would contribute to stronger economies, increased employment opportunities and shared prosperity for present and future generations.