Kalonzo backs EAC common currency as he outlines record ahead of 2027

Kalonzo Musyoka, a former Vice President of Kenya and Wiper Patriotic Front leader, has reiterated his support for the East African Community (EAC) to achieve political federation and adopt a common currency. During an interview on August 10, 2026, Kalonzo, who served as Vice President under Mwai Kibaki, highlighted his role in reviving the EAC after its collapse in 1977.

He emphasized that achieving a political federation and a common currency remain crucial steps for the region, which currently has eight member states including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia. The EAC aims to establish a single regional currency by 2031, with central bank governors reaffirming this target during a recent meeting.

While progress has been made in harmonizing monetary policies and strengthening payment systems, macroeconomic convergence criteria remain uneven. Kalonzo, who was also Foreign Affairs Minister during the Bagathi peace process in Somalia, stressed the importance of regional integration for economic and political cooperation among East African countries.

If elected president in 2027, he indicated that regional integration, the common currency, and a political federation would remain key components of his agenda. Kalonzo also mentioned his involvement in Kenya Vision 2030, the country's long-term development plan, and criticized the current administration for not completing projects listed in the plan, such as the High Grand Falls Dam.