William Ruto has called on East African countries to take bold and deliberate steps to boost intra-regional trade, describing it as a key driver for accelerating economic growth within the East African Community (EAC).
Addressing the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania in Dodoma on May 5, 2026, President Ruto said trade among EAC member states remains low, ranging between 15 and 30 percent. He noted that this reflects a continued reliance on external markets, despite the region’s strong potential for internal trade expansion.
He said the current situation presents a clear opportunity for East African nations to deepen economic ties by trading more with each other, a move he said would open up new markets, strengthen local industries, and create more jobs for citizens.
President Ruto stressed that unlocking this potential will require coordinated efforts, including improving cross-border infrastructure, removing trade barriers, and harmonising policies to support smoother movement of goods and services across the region.
He also highlighted the central role of youth in driving the region’s economic transformation. He said millions of young people enter the labour market every year across countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, bringing energy, skills and ambition that must be matched with real economic opportunities.
According to him, empowering young people through trade, entrepreneurship, and innovation will be critical in shaping a more inclusive and resilient regional economy.
President Ruto said that by strengthening cooperation and investing in shared development priorities, East Africa can position itself as a competitive hub for business, job creation, and sustainable growth for future generations.
