A new audit report tabled before the East African Legislative Assembly shows that several Partner States--especially Burundi, South Sudan and DR Congo--are failing to meet their financial obligations, undermining key regional programmes and slowing East Africa's integration agenda.

Presenting the findings, Audit Committee Chairperson Veronica Kadogo, who represents Uganda in EALA, warned that persistent delays in remitting contributions continue to disrupt the East African Community's operations.

She noted that although arrears have reduced from $71.3 million to $37.9 million, several countries remain far behind.

According to the report, Burundi carries the largest burden with $17.9 million in outstanding dues,

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followed by the Democratic Republic of Congo with $8.5 million and South Sudan with $7.9 million. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda have largely met their obligations, with minimal balances of $597, $19,113 and $112,550 respectively.

Kadogo said the shortfalls were hampering the execution of key programmes and weakening the momentum of regional integration, which depends heavily on predictable financing.

She urged Partner States to submit formal commitments outlining how and when they intend to clear the arrears, and called on the EAC Secretariat to step up follow-up efforts.

The Audit Committee further recommended that the Secretariat issue timely reminders and demand notes to ensure Partner States remain accountable.

The report is expected to be debated in the next House sitting once the Speaker of EALA sets the agenda.

The EAC continues to struggle with funding gaps as some member countries grapple with economic pressures and political instability, leaving the bloc vulnerable and unable to fully finance its operations, projects and wider integration goals.