Former legislators of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and regional affairs analysts are raising concerns that the East African Community (EAC) could face significant strain unless partner states demonstrate stronger political commitment to advancing integration.
Observers warn that challenges similar to those that led to the collapse of the original EAC in 1977 may be re-emerging, fueled by competing national interests, financial shortfalls, and the rapid admission of new member states.
The EAC, originally founded in 1967, collapsed a decade later due to political disagreements, trade imbalances, and sovereignty concerns among Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The bloc was revived in 1999 with the goal of deepening regional cooperation through trade, a common market, and eventual political integration.
Yet, more than two decades after its revival, analysts say the community continues to face obstacles in implementing key policies and protocols.
Former EALA members, including Lydia Wanyoto and Bernard Kasangavu Mulengani, point to the rapid expansion of the community without fully consolidating existing integration frameworks as a major challenge.
They also highlight financial constraints within the bloc, noting that some member states delay or fail to remit their contributions while still maintaining representatives in the regional parliament.
“Gaps in funding and uneven political support expose structural weaknesses in the community’s enforcement mechanisms,” the former legislators said.
Analysts further note that some member states continue to prioritize national interests over regional commitments. Competition for influence and key positions within the bloc often affects decision-making and slows the implementation of regional agreements.
James Nsaba Buturo, Chairperson of Parliament’s Committee on East African Community Affairs, says limited political will among some partner states is hindering progress on the EAC integration agenda.
He adds that weak unity and delayed implementation of agreed policies remain key obstacles, and some newer leadership appears less committed to advancing regional goals.
The EAC has also experienced recurring diplomatic and trade tensions among member states, including past border closures between Uganda and Rwanda, trade disputes between Kenya and Tanzania, and security-related accusations involving Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
“These tensions not only complicate economic cooperation but also raise questions about the long-term stability of the bloc,” analysts said.
Experts caution that unless member states strengthen political commitment, ensure timely financial contributions, and prioritize regional integration over narrow national interests, the EAC may continue to face challenges that hinder its vision of deeper economic and political unity in East Africa.