Maria Apoo Oitamong

The Revived East African Community: Fast-tracking the Political Federation Maria Apoo Oitamong

This book examines the approach to the federation of the East African states. It compares the neo-functional fast-tracking employed by the revived East African Community, EAC (1990) with the traditional functionalist approach that was employed by the now-defunct first East African Community (1967-1977). An indepth discourse of the fast-tracking of the political federation clarifies the main difference between the two. A detailed study of the administrative structure of the community further illuminates the decision-making mechanism of the new EAC as an indication of the approach employed. The author points out lessons from the defunct EAC that should be enhanced to solidify the neo-functional attempts of the revived community while highlighting the pitfalls that led to the latter?s downfall that should guide the current endeavors. The book analyzes paradigms that have been employed elsewhere and reflects on East Africa's selection, could we have done better? Finally, the author ventures into the minds of the East African people and wonders if they are ready for political federation, especially on a fast-track lane.