“Irreconcilable national economic interests were primarily responsible for the breakup of the East African Community (EAC) in 1977” Discuss.

The breakup of the East African Community (EAC) in 1977 was indeed influenced by irreconcilable national economic interests, but it was also driven by a combination of political, ideological, and social factors. Here are some key points to consider:

• Economic Disparities: The three member countries—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—were at different levels of economic development. Kenya, with its more advanced industrial base, benefited more from the EAC’s common market. This created resentment in Tanzania and Uganda, who felt that they were not receiving equitable benefits from the community.
• Ideological Differences: The member states had differing economic ideologies. Tanzania pursued socialism under President Julius Nyerere, Kenya followed a capitalist approach, and Uganda had a mixed economy. These ideological differences made it difficult to harmonize economic policies and plan cohesive development strategies.
• Trade Imbalances: The economic imbalance was further exacerbated by trade imbalances. Kenya’s dominance in manufacturing and trade meant that it exported more to Tanzania and Uganda than it imported from them. This trade imbalance led to tensions and accusations of economic exploitation.
• Customs Revenue Disputes: Disputes over the distribution of customs revenue also contributed to the breakup. Kenya was accused of using customs revenue that belonged to the EAC without proper allocation to the other member states. This malpractice created further distrust and strained relations.
• Political Conflicts: Personal and political conflicts among the leaders of the member states played a significant role. The strained relationship between Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere and Ugandan President Idi Amin, for example, made it difficult for the EAC to function effectively. Nyerere’s refusal to recognize Amin as Uganda’s leader and the subsequent diplomatic tensions further weakened the community.
• Selfish Political Interests: The member states often prioritized their national interests over regional cooperation. This lack of commitment to the EAC’s goals and the pursuit of selfish political interests weakened the organization and contributed to its eventual collapse.

However, other causes to the breakup of EAC by 1977 included.

• Foreign Influence: External influences, particularly from the USA and Britain, also played a role in the collapse. These countries were concerned that a strong EAC would reduce their influence in the region and worked to undermine the community.
• Production of similar good: This made integration irrelevant since these countries were competing for common market and raw materials. Mutual benefit did not exist.
• Lack of potential leaders: The EAC lacked a strong institutional framework and leadership to enforce the provisions of the treaty and resolve disputes effectively.
• Lack of common language: Tanzania preferred Kiswahili, Uganda – English while Kenya – both. This caused misunderstanding and collapse of EAC.
• Opposition from African leaders: For instance, Kabaka Mutesa II was advocating for secession of Buganda as opposed to unitary system of the British. Obote reasoned “It is futile to think of external problem amidst internal problem” while Nyerere observed “I better be a big fish in a small pond than a small fish in a big pond.” These ideas undermined the idea of East African Federation.
• Impact of World War II: influenced by World War II, African Nationalists advocated for independence of separate states like that achieved in Asia.
• The desire to unite Tanganyika with Zanzibar. Despite being a good idea Kenya and Uganda opposed it leading to mistrust.

In conclusion, while irreconcilable national economic interests were a significant factor in the breakup of the EAC in 1977, the collapse was also driven by ideological differences, political conflicts, trade imbalances, customs revenue disputes, foreign influence, and selfish political interests.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science