In a significant step toward enhanced environmental governance and pan-African collaboration, the State of the African Diaspora (SOAD) and the East Africa Climate Legislative Assembly (EACLA) have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance climate change advocacy, harmonize legislative frameworks, and promote sustainable development across East Africa and the wider African diaspora.
The MoU, establishes a framework for strategic cooperation in key areas including:
- Joint development and support of climate-responsive legislative policies
- Advocacy campaigns addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities
- Technical exchange and capacity building between legislators and diaspora experts
- Promotion of climate justice and indigenous knowledge systems in climate resilience strategies
The partnership signifies a united front in tackling the continent’s most pressing environmental challenges by leveraging the expertise, innovation, and global reach of the African diaspora alongside the legislative mandate and regional focus of EACLA. The partnership is expected to produce joint policy briefs, public awareness initiatives, and support mechanisms for national parliaments in developing and implementing effective climate laws.
Mr Bryan Mutuma, the Chair of EACLA, stated :
« This MoU represents a vital collaboration that amplifies our efforts to legislate for a just and sustainable future. By joining forces with SOAD, we are aligning regional priorities with global African solidarity for climate justice. »
Dr Louis-Georges, the Prime Minister of SOAD, declared :
« This initiative was made possible thanks to the mediation of Mr. Joel Ounga Mantara, Ambassador of SOAD. This agreement follows the initiatives undertaken by the SOAD, like the signing of a cooperation agreement with the Parliament of the African Union on November 15, 2024. Now we are glad to have the opportunity to work with another Parliament, a legislative body for the East Africa Region, as ourselves, we represent the 6th Region of Africa. »
*About the East Africa Climate Legislative Assembly (EACLA)
EACLA is a regional parliamentary body committed to promoting climate accountability, legislative innovation, and sustainable development across East Africa.
