By Kelly Mumbi
Renson Ingonga, The Director of Public Prosecutions, launched a three-day conference in Mombasa that focused on developing the strategic plan for The Eastern Africa Association of Prosecutors (EAAP)
The meeting included the association’s members from Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda and Uganda aiming to finalize the EAAP Strategic Framework for effective prosecution of transnational organized crimes cases.
Under the guidance of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), the participants will review laws on organized crimes in EAAP member countries to craft a strategic plan that will effectively prosecute cross-border crimes.
“The strategic plan serves as a guide to check the success of the association’s performance,” Mentioned Ingonga, the EAAP president.
The EAPP president further urged the participants to create a durable document that will endure over time and gain global recognition.
Additionally, the ODPP asked participants to ensure the strategic plan is underpinned by the appropriate legal framework that will support the achievement of the objectives of the association.
Vicky Nabisenke, Uganda’s Assistant DPP for international cooperation, applauded the EAAP leadership for their support to the development of the strategic plan.
She further mentioned that the final document will be presented to the principals at the upcoming meeting scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda.
Teresa Mugadza, IDLO’s Country Director for Kenya, underscored the significance of the strategic plan in enhancing collaboration and mutual legal assistance to combat crime.
She further stressed that prosecutors have the huge responsibility of ensuring cases are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to secure the correct conviction and sentencing.
She reiterated the need for the prosecutors to expand their network beyond the region in economic crimes and terrorism among other cross-border crimes.
Mr. Vincent Monda, head of Mutual Legal Assistance, emphasized the need to identify areas of cooperation and collaboration in addressing transnational organized crimes among the EAAP member states.