Examine the achievements of East African Community (EAC) up to 1977.

The East African Community (EAC) achieved several significant milestones before its collapse in 1977. Here are some key achievements:

1. Economic Integration: The EAC established a common market that facilitated the free movement of goods, services, and people among Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. This integration helped boost trade and economic cooperation among the member states through market creation.
2. Shared Services: The EAC facilitated the establishment of shared services and institutions, such as the East African Railways, East African Airways, East African Development Bank, and the East African Posts and Telecommunications. These institutions aimed to improve infrastructure and services across the region.
3. Customs Union: The EAC implemented a customs union that harmonized tariffs and trade policies among the member states. This union helped reduce trade barriers and promote economic growth within the region.
4. Common Currency: The East African Currency Board provided a common currency for the member states from 1919 to 1966. This common currency facilitated trade and economic stability within the region.
5. Political Cooperation: The EAC promoted political cooperation and unity among the member states. The leaders of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda held regular meetings to discuss regional issues and coordinate their policies.
6. Infrastructure Development: The EAC invested in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, railways, and airports. These projects aimed to improve connectivity and support economic growth within the region.
7. Social and Cultural Integration: The EAC promoted social and cultural integration through various initiatives, including the establishment of the East African Community Anthem and the East African Passport. These initiatives aimed to foster a sense of regional identity and unity among the people of East Africa.
8. Education: East African Community (EAC) promoted education leading the University of East Africa with three colleges, i.e. Makerere in Uganda, Nairobi in Kenya and Dar es Slam I Tanzania.
9. Health: Health sector was also catered for leading to establishment of Entebbe virus research institute to research on tropical diseases and the finding were shared among the member countries.

Despite its achievements, the EAC faced several challenges, including economic disparities, ideological differences, and political conflicts, which ultimately led to its collapse in 1977. However, the legacy of the EAC’s achievements continues to influence efforts towards regional cooperation and integration in East Africa.

Please obtain free notes, exams and marking guides of Physics, chemistry, biology, history, from digitalteachers.co.ug website.

Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science