Speakers of parliaments from the member states of the East African Community (EAC) on Friday called for joint efforts to fight terrorism in the region. 
Sharing of information was important in finding a lasting solution to the problem which was growing roots within EAC member states of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, they said.
Speaking during the EAC Forum of Speakers in Dar es Salaam, the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda Rebecca Kadaga said collaboration between security machineries across the region was important in the war against terrorism.
“Vigilance within our people is also important because terrorism is a threat in our region and citizens in all countries should ensure they share information of any suspicious matters with security officials,” she said.
“The speakers’ forum received with profound shock by the recent news of a terrorist attack perpetrated against innocent students at Garissa University in Kenya,” said Anne Makinda, the Speaker of Tanzania’s Parliament.
“On behalf of the forum, I extend my deep condolence to the government, parliament, and the people of Kenya on the tragic loss of lives,” she said.
The terrorist attacks were a threat to the region, she said, adding that all EAC member states needed to work together as a region to find a lasting solution to the problem.
Speaker of the Parliament of Kenya Justin Muturi said information gathering and sharing within security agencies in the region was important.
“Citizens should also ensure that our young people should not be associated with bad companies and assistance should be provided by governments at all levels,” said Muturi.
The 11th meeting of the EAC Speakers’ Forum was held in Dar es Salaam to discuss crucial issues, including terrorism which was brought in discussion following the recent Garissa University attack in Kenya that killed 148 students. Enditem
Source: Xinhua
