• You will be able to move even more freely in the East African region once you obtain a third generation identity card.

• And although you will remain a citizen of your country, the commencement of the Common Market Protocol means that you are now an East African citizen, and are therefore a dual citizen, even though one of two of the member state constitutions might not permit this.

• The Protocol will also allow for free movement of goods, labour, services and capital.

• Currently, there are vacancies in banking and finance sectors, including insurance and brokerage sectors, air transport, tourism , energy, professional services (accounting, auditing, and management consultancy), and ICT, media, and music in the EAC.

• Vacancies are available in the EAC website, under the Protocol annexes- Free Movement of Workers.

• However, for an applicant to actually get a job in any of the EAC Partner states, one has to comply with the immigration procedures of that country. Successful candidates are expected to have identified a vacancy, applied for it, interviewed and offered a chance for employment. They will then be issued with a pass, which will allow them to enter into the host Partner State.

• But this tedious process is only a stopgap measure, as the EAC States work towards the conclusion of the Mutual Recognition of Academic and Professional Qualifications, which is currently underway. Once completed, you will no longer be required to apply for a work permit to work in any EAC State.