Socioeconomic Impact and Implementation Challenges of the COMESA Free Movement of Persons Protocol on Economic Development in Kenya
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Date
2023
Journal Title
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Publisher
Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS)
Abstract
The study purpose of the study was to investigate the implementation of the Common Market
for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Free Movement of Persons Protocol (FMPP)
and its consequential effects on Kenya's economic development. By examining the various
dimensions of the COMESA FMPP, including its policy implications, legal framework, and
practical challenges, the study provided a comprehensive analysis of the protocol's impact on
Kenya's economic landscape. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative
methodologies, the study assessed key economic indicators, such as trade flows, investment
patterns, provision of visa on arrival, and skill mobility, to gauge the protocol's influence on
Kenya's economic growth and regional integration within the COMESA framework. The
study's findings underscore the transformative impact of the COMESA FMPP on mobility,
trade, investment, and the associated challenges in Kenya. The COMESA FMPP has acted as
a catalyst for enhanced labor mobility, facilitating the movement of skilled professionals
across borders, contributing to labor market diversification and new employment
opportunities. However, challenges persist in ratification and implementation of the protocol
and lack of political commitment across member states, potentially hindering the protocol's
full potential. The protocol has significantly improved trade and foreign direct investment in
Kenya, with increased trade flows, especially in sectors relying on a skilled labor force by
issuance of visa on arrival at entry points. Yet, policy harmonization among member states is
necessary for unlocking the full growth potential in trade and investment. The study
highlights the complexity of policy and legal framework challenges, such as harmonizing
immigration and labor policies, recognizing professional qualifications, sovereignty issue and
ensuring cross-border security, which demand close cooperation among member states.
Public awareness and understanding are essential for successful implementation.
Recommendations include ensuring full ratification of the COMESA FMPP, immigration
laws harmonization, capacity building, policy harmonization, investment promotion,
infrastructure development, constant continuous stakeholder engagement, public awareness
campaigns, and strengthening cross-border security.
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Citation
Mutai, D. C & Wasonga, J. (2023). Socioeconomic Impact and Implementation Challenges of the COMESA Free Movement of Persons Protocol on Economic Development in Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 7(11), 85 – 93