The move by the East African Community (EAC) to lower the age limit for imported second-hand cars is a step in the right direction.
An EAC resolution has recommended the slashing of the age limit for imported cars to five years by 2021.
The gradual phase-out is the way to go and will see the local vehicle assembly sector reap massive dividends.
The proposal is a massive boost for local vehicle assembly as it will create jobs.
Currently, there is no uniformity on regulations regarding second-hand cars with Kenya operation an eight-year age limit while Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan do not have any limits.
It is such disjointed policies within the bloc that have seen member states flooding the market with old imported vehicles while stagnating the growth of new car manufacturing.
The EAC is also in the right track by proposing that it plans to invest in two large-scale assembly plants that will produce affordable cars.
We urge the EAC to ensure that these proposals are implemented as stated and avoid having them collect dust in the shelves.
The only way the region can attract foreign investment is by having solid policies that can create jobs and better the welfare of its citizens.
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