Challenges and Disintegration of the East African Community: A Critical Analysis of Principles Violations and Regional Conflicts

For the last decades, there has been increased violence in the Great Lakes Region of Africa, especially along the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Almost five years in 2020, The DRC joined the East Africa Regional Economic Community to leverage peace and economic integration possibilities.

Today the disintegration of the East Africa Community (EAC) is becoming a possibility as it's the most violent Regional Economic Community (REC) in Africa. The eventuality can be analyzed through the lens of violating its principles and charter, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in the Great Lakes Region involving Rwanda and Uganda.

The EAC was established to promote economic integration, political cooperation, and regional stability among its member states, and is founded on principles such as good governance, democracy, rule of law, and peaceful coexistence. However, the actions of Rwanda and Uganda in invading or destabilizing their neighbours, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), directly contravene these principles, leading to a breakdown in trust and cooperation within the community.

1. Violation of the EAC Charter and Principles

The EAC Charter emphasizes peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for sovereignty, and non-interference in the internal affairs of member states. Rwanda and Uganda's involvement in the DRC's internal conflicts, including supporting rebel groups and exploiting natural resources, violates these principles. Such actions undermine the EAC's credibility and create tensions among member states, as they erode trust and mutual respect.

2. Impact on Regional Stability

The Great Lakes Region has been a hotspot for conflict, with the DRC being a focal point due to its vast natural resources and weak governance. Rwanda and Uganda's alleged invasions and support for armed groups in the DRC have exacerbated instability, leading to humanitarian crises and displacement. This instability spills over into neighbouring EAC member states, such as Burundi and Tanzania, creating a ripple effect of insecurity. The EAC's inability to address these conflicts effectively highlights its failure to uphold its mandate of ensuring regional peace and security.

3. Economic Consequences

The EAC's primary goal is economic integration, which relies on stability and cooperation among member states. The conflict in the Great Lakes Region disrupts trade, investment, and infrastructure development, hindering the region's economic progress. For instance, the DRC's mineral-rich eastern region, which is a key resource for the global economy, remains unstable due to external interference, preventing the EAC from fully harnessing its potential for regional development.

4. Erosion of Trust and Cooperation

The actions of Rwanda and Uganda have led to a breakdown in diplomatic relations within the EAC. Other member states, such as Kenya and Tanzania, may view these actions as a threat to regional cohesion and their security. This erosion of trust makes it difficult for the EAC to function effectively, as member states prioritize their national interests over regional integration.

5. Failure of Conflict Resolution Mechanisms

The EAC has established mechanisms for conflict resolution, such as the EAC Protocol on Peace and Security. However, these mechanisms have proven ineffective in addressing the Rwanda-Uganda-DRC conflict. The lack of enforcement and political will to hold member states accountable for their actions undermines the EAC's authority and legitimacy.

6. External Influence and Geopolitical Dynamics

The Great Lakes Region's conflicts are also influenced by external actors, such as multinational corporations and global powers, who exploit the region's resources. Rwanda and Uganda's involvement in the DRC may be driven by economic interests and geopolitical alliances, further complicating the EAC's efforts to resolve the conflict. This external interference weakens the EAC's ability to act independently and uphold its principles.

7. Recommendations for the EAC

To address these challenges, the EAC must:

• Strengthen its conflict resolution mechanisms and ensure accountability for member states that violate its charter.
• Promote dialogue and mediation to resolve the Rwanda-Uganda-DRC conflict.
• Enhance regional cooperation on security and resource management to prevent external exploitation.
• Reaffirm its commitment to the principles of good governance, democracy, and the rule of law.

In Conclusion

The disintegration of the EAC is a consequence of its failure to uphold its principles and charter, particularly in the face of conflicts involving member states like Rwanda and Uganda. The ongoing instability in the Great Lakes Region highlights the need for the EAC to reform its approach to conflict resolution and regional integration. Without addressing these issues, the EAC risks further fragmentation and irrelevance in promoting peace and development in East Africa.