A proposed East African Community (EAC) Agroecology Bill seeks to establish a common legal framework for integrating agroecological principles across the region’s agrifood systems. The legislative process began in April 2026 within the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), with the draft expected to proceed through public consultations and parliamentary consideration. During a webinar hosted by the Center for Food and Adequate Living Rights and broadcast by Witness Radio, legislators, agricultural experts and food sovereignty advocates discussed the proposed legislation and the conditions required for its implementation.

According to the Bill memorandum cited in the resource, the proposed framework would combine ecological, social and participatory approaches with scientific and traditional knowledge. Its objectives include supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services, strengthening resilience and livelihoods, and promoting food sovereignty. Participants also highlighted healthier soils, crop diversification, Indigenous seeds and reduced dependence on costly external inputs as priorities associated with agroecological transitions.

Speakers emphasized that legislation alone would not ensure implementation. They identified adequate budgets and financing, supportive policies, committed lawmakers and meaningful farmer participation as important enabling conditions. The discussion also highlighted opportunities for youth engagement in agriculture. As the Bill remains under development, the resource presents these expected contributions as objectives and perspectives advanced by its supporters rather than established outcomes.