Geneva, October 15, 2024 The Rt. Hon. Joseph Ntakirutimana, Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), delivered his address at the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly held at the Geneva International Conference Centre. The theme of this year's assembly focused on the transformative impact of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) on global development.
In his remarks, Speaker Ntakirutimara emphasized the critical role of STI in fostering a peaceful, sustainable, and equitable world. He highlighted the East African Community's (EAC) commitment to becoming a global leader in STI through the establishment of specialized institutions such as the East African Science and Technology Commission and the East African Health Research Commission. These institutions aim to promote scientific knowledge, research, and innovation to address everyday challenges.
Speaker Ntakirutimana also underscored the strides made by East African parliaments in embracing digital transformation Initiatives to enhance public engagement, transparency, and accountability were highlighted alongside efforts to bridge the digital divide and address challenges such as resource allocation, gender disparity, and cybersecurity.
The Speaker outlined the EAC's ongoing efforts to leverage digital tools to streamline legislative processes, including the use of electronic voting systems and digital databases. He also emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, facilitated by modern technologies such as live streaming and digital record-keeping.
Speaker Ntakirutimana called for intemational collaboration to ensure equitable access to the benefits of STI. He stressed the need for adaptable regulatory frameworks and preparations for the socio-economic impacts of technological advancements, particularly for vulnerable demographics. The Speaker reaffirmed the EALA's commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment where technology supports human rights and promotes inclusivity and diversity in STI careers.
The address concluded with a call to action for parliamentarians to shape a peaceful, sustainable, and just world for future generations.
This year's theme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting the importance of scientific advancement and its benefits for all.
The IPU's current initiatives, including the draft Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology, were highlighted as essential in engaging parliamentarians in the conscientious and beneficial use of STL. The Assembly also discussed potential risks and challenges associated with STI, such as dual-use technologies, regulatory lag, technological unemployment, data privacy and security, misinformation, and inequality.
The participation of the EALA delegation underscores the Assembly's commitment to fostering international cooperation and dialogue on these critical issues. Rt. Hon. Ntakirutimana stated, "Our presence at the 149th IPU Assembly is a testament to our dedication to harnessing the power of science, technology, and innovation to create a more peaceful, sustainable, and just world".
Accompanied by Hon. George Odongo, the Rt. Hon Speaker met at the sidelines of IPU the leaderships of various parliaments to discuss areas of cooperation between them and EALA.
The Speaker also extended invitations to the Speaker of ECOWAS parliament to the EALA Plenary that starts on the October 20, 2024 in Kampala, Uganda.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is a global organization of national parliaments, dedicated to promoting peace, democracy, and sustainable development through parliamentary diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation, with a vision of ensuring every voice counts and democracy serves the people.
About the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA): The East African Legislative Assembly is the legislative arm of the East African Community (EAC), responsible for enacting laws and overseeing the implementation of EAC policies and programs. EALA works to promote regional integration and development through legislative action and collaboration with member states.
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For further information, please contact:
Nicodemus Ajak Bior
Senior Public Relations Officer (SPRO)
East Africa Legislative Assembly
Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255-768-885-633/, +254729157207(WhatsApp)
Email: nbior@eachq.org
Web: www.eala.org
