“Tensions will continue to exist, “ says Wanyande. “ For example, it is unfortunate that even with the revival of the community, the Summit still plays a very important role in terms of managing the affairs of the community. So that will still create a problem. You remember recently there was tension between Kenya and Uganda over the Migingo Island. And you can be sure that could actually affect the meetings of the Summit of the EAC.”

On the other hand, political progress continues, although incrementally. In December, leaders of the EAC pledged to join forces to fight climate change.... They’ll work to craft a new policy to ensure that food surpluses in one country can help alleviate shortages in another. They’re also working to strengthen infrastructure that could help with production, storage and transportation of strategic food products from across the region.

Supporters say building a strong EAC is just part of boosting African development. Developing economic and political relations between countries of a region is the first step. The next, they say, is strengthening ties among all of Africa’s regional blocks until the whole continent is interconnected.