Editorial

EDITORIAL

Reform, responsibility and rescue for the EAC

East Africans cannot afford to witness the collapse of the East African Community (EAC) a second time. The painful disintegration of 1977, born of political rivalry, institutional strain and narrow national interests should remain a permanent lesson. Regional integration is not a luxury; it is a strategic necessity in a competitive global economy.

The revival of the Community in 2000 rekindled hope. Expansion from the original three members to a bloc of eight was meant to strengthen markets, deepen cooperation and build a people-centred institution insulated from the whims of individuals. Yet today, the EAC finds itself in a deep financial and administrative crisis.

A funding gap of nearly 90 million dollars and unpaid contributions amounting to tens of millions have paralysed operations. Legislators have gone months without pay. Core activities at the Secretariat have stalled. This is not sustainable. Membership cannot be about rights without obligations. Every partner state must meet its financial commitments fully and on time.

But fiscal discipline alone will not rescue the Community. The EAC must confront hard truths about its internal structure. Overspending, overstaffing, frequent travel and duplication of functions between the Secretariat, organs and national EAC ministries, among others, have inflated costs while delivering limited value to citizens. Integration should streamline governance, not expand bureaucracy.

Serious reform is overdue. Leaders must consider downsizing staffing where necessary, rationalising regional bodies, reviewing legislation and eliminating overlapping mandates. New members may also require structured integration periods to ensure financial and institutional readiness before assuming full obligations.

Equally damaging is the persistent infighting among partner states. Public disagreements erode confidence and weaken the regional brand. The EAC once stood as a model of cooperation in Africa. That reputation must be restored through unity, accountability and shared purpose.

As the Summit convenes, citizens expect courage. This is the moment for decisive leadership. If reforms are embraced and commitments honoured, the EAC can emerge leaner, stronger and more credible. We hope that today’s Summit will deliver not political posturing but a clear rescue plan — and come out a winner for the people of East Africa.

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