I hope this goes through, a wealthier and more stable Africa is crucial to ending poverty and instability in the world at large. Wow, I had to turn notifications off just because of this one comment. Thanks guys for the attention but the original comment was meant entirely in an optimist rose tinted glasses kind of way. Geeze, a guy can dream no?
It all depends on how stable the new country would be. If it became a dictatorship, then no as I’d rather some democracies than no democracies. However if it could stay democratic and begin to prosper then I’m all for it.
Also the poverty in Africa is by design. Since the western powers extract everything they can from Africa. So as long as we keep them shackled with "free trade" deals and massive corporations wielding massive Power through the legal System poverty will not be defeated.
Yeah like the west gonna allow others to prosper... They will send terrorists, economic hitmen, sabotage it, or the CIA gonna do something like usual, i mean, they got so much experience on how to assassinate leadership or organise a coup.
There's a danger in true unification in a region historically marked by conflict though. The Rwandan genocide and countless other African atrocities have happened due to ethnic tension within a single, unified country, and the inability to share power. I think the EAF as a single country could bring about more of this sort of tension, especially if the DRC joins. A customs union and political alliance would be extremely beneficial, but I'm not too sold on unification.
@@aidanw9378 i think a large enough federation of so many different ethnic groups would be able to balance each other out and unshackle the smaller undignified, unrecognized ethnic groups in the former countries
As someone from Kenya, this would be a tall order. Politics is highly ethnicised in our country alone, our neighbours don't get on with us much despite the EAC and Tanzania prefers a union with SADC.
Kenyan here and I have to be honest, the dysfunction that currently characterises the relationships between member states of EAC makes a union highly unlikely (though more likely than any other union on the continent which...take from that what you will). Kenya and Tanzania have tensions as do Uganda and Rwanda. South Sudan and D.R.C are in disarray and God knows what's going on in Burundi. Not to mention a successful federation would need strong democratic institutions to balance power among countries which disqualifies several countries outright like Uganda. Corruption is a common underlying factor and here in Kenya its the bread and butter of the current regime. The potential is massive but the situation as is seems to dull that potential
Kenyatta is well ahead and a true visionary but I don't agree with him about boarderless Africa as this may result in wars especially with a country like Rwanda that is using or used by multinationals and Guerrillas to depopulated Eastern DRC, (Museveni M7)of Uganda now understands the importance of the Union and is working towards it Tshisekedi in the other hand have the same understanding as Kenyatta but need to stabilise the country first
For those negative naysayers, Congo has formally joined the EAC and EAC already is the most integrated region in Africa. While politicians drag their feet in drafting agreements, on the ground, trade is already brisk and people understand one another very well.
Yes and I hope we north African to finish the political problems and united in mhagreb federation 🇹🇳🇩🇿🇲🇦🇱🇾🇲🇷🌹 We gonna be tow African super pawors Mhagreb and EAF
West Africa is also in the process of unifying it's currency. The only stumbling blocks are lingering French influences and fear of being dominated by Nigerian trade. Still I like all of these movements on the continent. Among Africa's issues have been the number of landlocked countries and lack of inter-African trade. These movements solve both issues.
@@fighterck6241 a unified West Africa, from Senegal to Cameroon to Timbuktu would bring a real tear to my eye and even have me shredding my American passport
For me as a Kenyan it is has more to do with the fact that the pieces are moving than whether or not it will work. I need my daughter and son to be citizens of a proud nation on a world stage, not a beggar one.
@@montumeroe9593 no African super power country can ever be like England, we know what it feels like to be taken advantage of, so we won`t do it to others.
@@omollo-1 I was referring to the beggar part of the writer's paragraph as I write England has no allies. They are alone no trade deals with America, just a bunch of racists now talking about going to war alone against Russia? Another attempt by an inept Island elite who want to break up the EU won't work. Just like China will hand them their asses without firing a shot.
I could see it happening without Congo and South Sudan but if they actually try to bring both of them into it there's just no chance. Congo really isn't a stable country, more than one hundred different armed groups operate in the east of the country and you could easily argue that it's not only in a civil war right now but that the country has been in a permanent civil war since it's creation. And there's not even an argument about it for South Sudan, it just straight up has been in a permanent civil war since its creation. Do you really think bringing in more ethnicities and outside intervention into it will make things better?
South Sudan seems more likely - it was a british colony, much smaller, closer geographically, and has an actual chance of stabilizing, being established just last decade. With the community's help, it has a chance of becoming a backwards, but integrable region in the next decade.
Rwanda is in the middle of a huge joint military operation with the DRC targeting those groups. The EAC and the DRC have a pretty good history of cooperation since the African Great War. I expect that South Sudan and the DRC will be kept out of the EAF for the first few years because they're economically unstable, and as the EAF invests in them, they'll stabilize and be allowed to join later. Like how the EU treats the Balkans.
It could work if the west turns a blind eye to humanitarian concerns. South Sudan and the DRC have never had any real money to spend on their rebel problems. I could imagine a world where these groups are decimated by a massive drone striking and rural security campaign, backed up by big increases in local wealth from all the new business opportunities and public spending.
the South Sudanese civil war is over now, but the country is still in an awful situation and would likely drag the federation down. But if the other members are really willing to bring them along, then why not. Trying to integrate the DRC is just stupid though.
I do hope this goes through, but the DRC definitely wouldn't help them, considering their instability and the fact that much of their population lives on the other side of the rainforest in the west. South Sudan being admitted into the project was already a questionable decision, most of the budget would probably initially have to go into bringing it to the same level of development as the other members.
Yeah, that is what I thought so too! It seems in theory great to have a bigger union with ports on both sides of the continent, but once you really look into it seems more trouble than what is worth. Not to say that the other countries of the union are homogenous, because that is simply not true, but the cultural, geographical and historical differences certainly start to contrast a lot more once you add the DRC into the mix. It seems like it would be smarter to first federalize and stabilize the project, while keeping good relations with the DRC and hopefully a common costumes area.
Also if they really accept Dr Congo they should consider renaming themselves to Central Africa. What? There is already a nation named like that? Don’t worry about them, if they have no problem taking care of South Sudan and Dr Congo I’m sure they can happily handle CAR too
I fear the inclusion of the DRC would destabilize it. I think they should first consolidate this federation before including a new member, with the characteristics of the DRC.
@@brunobaia7898 Uganda and Rwanda have military presence in Congo to help with stabilization. If Congo becomes more stable, there is a chance of her joining EAF.
I think having South Sudan in it is a bit risky in the same way DRC is, and though it isn't as unworkable I expect South Sudan issues will delay the EAF's creation. We can hope, though :).
A Kenyan realist here, the greatest impediment in this dream coming to reality in the political sense is political instability in places like DRC due to rebel groups and also S. Sudan is constantly in turmoil. We have instability in E. Uganda and a dictatorial regime which is contrary to the Federation's democratic principles. Also, there are some economic factors that make the Federation impossible, countries which followed the capitalist economic model during the cold war like Kenya are far much ahead economically making the idea of a common currency difficult to implement.
The DRC wouldn’t be part of the initial country, and the other countries could simply adopt Kenya’s more stable currency instead of creating an entirely new currency.
@@triplemoyagames4195 Bro ..what makes ahead...How many industries are locally owned by indigenous Kenyans...Let me Remind you ...we it not for the Western world disturbing Congo...With Coups,and all the Ebola...this Country could Rival even the US.....
@@erastusmacharia1653 I didn't say we're good on a global scale. We're still a 3rd world country and I am angered at the government as much , if not, more than you are. However that does not mean I will not acknowledge our standings among the continent.
@@LuKing2 Indonesia doesn't speak the same language. The Philippines doesn't speak the same language either. India certainly doesn't speak the same language.
@@sieteocho i wasn't making a point about linguistical diversity being a bad thing, but India and phillipines still has a "shared language to use as a ligua franca" , it's more effective for buisness and work that involves different parts of the country. Indonesia i don't know about though
It is worth mentioning that the committee of experts set up to advise the drafting of the regional constitution recommended that the EAC commit to confederation as the first political step toward federation. Basically, they recommended that the countries retain sovereignty and the right to leave until full federalization occurs, IIRC.
Hope it works out. Although it could lead to tensions later on. Before we became a full federation America went through rough time Turning from a confederation to a federation.
A healthy federal system would allow power to shift between the union and the constituent states over time. But to strengthen this federation, sovereignty needs to be well defined from the start. Which powers are to be wielded by the Federation? Which are to remain controlled by the states (the countries as they are now)? How would those states draw up compacts between each other? And how could these power relationships be amended?
Africa needs this! I really hope this starts something with a move to an inviting Federal club that slowly creeps across Africa, bringing security and prosperity to all. Africa would gain so much by getting behind accountable governance systems that gradually reduce internal tariffs and increase internal trade within the continent.
As a person from Rwanda who lives in Rwanda, I'm glad to see this channel talking about Africa. If anyone is interested in videos about Africa, I'd recommend the TH-cam Channel "Risen Africa". It talks about this topic in a little more detail too.
Does Rwanda need federation level? I think federation is only possible with the initial 3. Rwanda is already a steadily growing country. Maybe federation could ruin it.
@@baekBlackbeen very possible. But based on the RPF's popularity in the region, there is a fairly good chance it would scoop up alot of seats in the parliament. Rwanda's strengths are information, stability and organization. It's weakness is a lack of natural resources. Increased access to the eastern ports and South Sudanese oil would boost that. Alot.
Kenyan school children have been singing both East African Anthem and the Kenyan Anthem every morning at school assemblies for over 5 years now. Both anthems must also be sung at all national and government events. The idea of belonging to East Africa too is slowly growing in people's minds. I see this happening.
I don't know why i feel really positive and hopeful for Africa, it's been a conflict zone for so long. Europe also should strenghten european identity by singing the european anthem
@@ayoCC The European Union Anthem is officially and deliberately without any text. You can't really sing it. I mean you can but that would make it a plus 20 version as every spoken language with in the EU is equal.
@@sirBrouwer the main reason ppl can sing the EAC anthem is cause its in Swahili which is excepted by all the countries. The EU has the disadvantage of ppl having strong national roots in their country and languages, but if the EU wants its ppl to except its anthem it should translate it into Latin for an strong European identity
@@keithteach5649 Latin would disadvantage Germanik, Nordic and Slavic speaking people. We do all share the language of music. That's why we use that version of Ode to the Joy
I love the idea of an EAF. It's a logical progression to federalise over time. Small countries with large populations will struggle economically and will continue that way indefinitely (as do large countries with small population). USA and EU are not without their problems, but arguably very much stronger together as a union than the sum of their parts. Right now, reading a lot of the comments, many do not have faith in the idea of an EAF. A shame really, but change does come slowly and incrementally. All I can humbly say is this, back the idea in principle and the problems will be resolved over time. If there are areas of contention then work on them slowly to see where the balance of opinion "falls". It would be a starting point, then over time "tune" the general consensus with small policy plays and periods of adjustment for the populace. All will adjust to new concepts (cultural amalgamation) and see the pros and cons of each choice. Political discussion must be open (democracy) and will always be fluid and contain some level of compromise. No fixed system of laws ever lasts long. Corruption is a consequence of poor economic opportunities, grow and be more prosperous EAF, watch the opportunities to grow and corruption will morph into less obvious examples, thus encouraging the populace. Corruption never goes away completely.
Agreed with everything (well written! ❤) but not with this --> "Corruption is a consequence of poor economic opportunities." Corruption happens when there is no accountability coming to punish a person doing the corruption. It can be government systems doing the punishment, it can be civil society systems, it can be reputational damage, political alienation... Furthermore; when people know punishment is likely (when it is "in the culture"), they won't risk behaving in a corrupt was (as much). Much success & Love, from Slovenia ❤ Rooting for the East Africa Federation to succeed & prosper 🏆
You forgot about ECOWAS which came to being in 1976 and it’s still functional. They use one single passport and enjoy borderless travel. The combined population is over 300 million people…
I think ECOWAS sucks!! The leaders there are not Pan Africanist in perspective, nor do they have progressive economic agendas like East African Community countries. The recent overthrow of French-controlled regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso etc is certainly helping to bring the region back to pro-African reality....❤😊
I hope this does happen for many reasons. 1, the African continent would benefit greatly from the stability this offers. 2, it means that countries will have to put aside their differences and join other countries if they want to compete on the global stage. Which helps push towards prosperity and peace globally. 3, this federation would be able to leverage influence and show other African countries that they can stand on their own feet and be successful.
@jin gu not quite. Look at how I have said African continent, as opposed to Africa. The African continent is comprised of 54 countries, who will have a diverse and rich culture. That being said, if several of those countries form federations/unions/etc it will help. The world has 2 very large super powers at the moment in time: China, and the USA. Independently countries can not compete or stand against these two behemoths. So by form federations/unions it helps give smaller countries more benefits. Look at the EU for example. Some of the countries in it are small and not big players on the world stage, but by being in the EU, it greatly benefits them. If several African countries form similar things, this will be good to help keep the two superpowers in check, and stop them from being bullies.
@@tiredgardener from the perspective of a EU resident. I can see that even from a selfish point. A stable economic and political block to the South of us would be beneficial. If only because it could lower the amount of conflicts.
@@yanniskarageorgiou3573 LMAO you wish. becoming one state will only make the process of Chinese-funded infrastructure and technology projects faster. it is clear to most subsaharan African countries by now that the preferable power to side and trade with is nowhere in the West. It's a no-brainer.
Fellow EACitizens, we may have a lot of issues now and face many stumbling blocks ahead but lets be positive and persistent. Unity will be a great thing economically and politically as it will allow us to set our own agenda and stave off the foreign power bullying we have experienced as Africans.
The first initial step to stability and eventually a federation is the strengthening of a joint east african army that will be capable of dealing with skirmishes and restoration of peace.
The southern part of Africa is stable. The most stable, both socially and economically. Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, and "South Africa" are quite powerful and stable economically. ( the issue is more Zimbabwe and Zambia).
I am East African, Kenyan if you must know. I have long admired the southern nations, particularly Botswana. Very well run. RSA, Namibia and Angola are doing pretty well themselves, and that doesn't get reported much in global news. But here in the East, we are not so badly off. I mean we're not in greatest shape, but in good enough shape to dream this dream of a stronger EAC/EAF. I hope we're strong enough to see it through. And wise enough to learn EU's steps and missteps.
Or another country with legal slavery...looking at you Libya. The Brits (with the USA and France eventually joining in) spent quite alot of money, lives and time ridding the world of slavery, only for you (along with others) to bring it back in the modern age...
@@mr.mintman7545 did you not know about the open slave markets now in Libya? Or is it that you did not realise the British went on an imperlistic crusade to rid the world of slavery in the 1800's?
@@dwavenminer USA and UK is what allowed slavery to appear in Libya after they killed Gaddafi and maintained the country in an endless Civil War (like they did to many countries). During Gaddafi, Libya had the highest HDI (Human Development Index) in Africa.
As A Ugandan, I'm not hopeful A lot of problems in east African have their root cause in poor leadership and corruption, For Uganda at least, many opportunity's have been lost and/or ignored due to corrupt officials fearing the lose of their power or money, which has caused massive civil instability. The "People power, our power" movement in Uganda is still going strong and peacefully despite the government's brutal, violent, and unethical suppression but it could very easily turn into a open revolt. Already the Ugandan government has disarmed around half of the armed forces due to both most of the military being young and the "People power, our power" movement striking strongest with the current Ugandan generation.The majority of remaining forces are conveniently comprised of a Army under direct command of the president's son. I'm not completely sure about other proposed member states, but their likely going through similar turmoil. The only way East Africa Federation would work is with some kind of Catherine the great level leader and while those people 100% exist in East Africa getting them in to power seems very unlikely.
You're pointing out the sad reality which will make such a union fail. Corrupt politicians will incite their clan/tribe/ethnicity to remain rich and stay in power. That is the unfortunate modus operandi in every single country in Africa, even in the more developed and democratic nations (Ethopia, Kenya and South Africa are prime examples).
The most helpful thing that can be done to help improve material conditions in Africa is for western imperialist countries to stop using methods like predatory loans to pressure African countries into adopting economies that are built around providing resources for western consumers. African countries need the right to build their own economies for themselves and to nationalize resources without western interference.
@@cuda260 I am not arguing that China isn't imperialist right now, in fact i believe they haven't been on the path towards Communism or even Socialism since Deng's reforms. What i am saying is that the US has world hegemonic power and works in the economic interests of themselves and their western European allies through imperialist institutions like the IMF and World Bank to force countries in the global south to build their economies in the interest of the US and west instead of themselves. This is done through things like predatory infrastructure loans from these agencies as well as forced coups if necessary.
@@ozarkharshnoisescene No African country us poor, the countries are exploited by both corrupt leaders and the countries which deem themselves rich and developed.
Pretty sure ancient Egypt was Africa's first super power. Maybe the first sub-saharan African super power, since [insert date I'm too lazy to research here.]
I am Kenyan and to be brutally honest, I've always thought the idea of a federation is not that popular with East Africans. Seems to be quite popular with non-east Africans though (idk why). I do however think the economic trade bloc has done really well for intra-member trade compared to the rest of Africa and should be the furthest we should go (obviously plus Ethiopia and the DRC) as the countries in the Region are very politically different. Altsimplified's video on Kenya's economy does shed light on the successes of the EAC. Here: th-cam.com/video/5_hShxrLY8g/w-d-xo.html
Can you look into who is pushing for this globalist project. My nation is being pushed into a European Federation by rich White people outside my country who have their own plans, I would not be surprised to find this is exactly the same for East Africa.
@@bassetts1899 Culturally? Nope. We all have dozens of ethnic groups so we all have a largely similar ethnic make up of bantus, nilotes and cushites. Our lingua franca is similar and you're likely to struggle to differentiate urban east africans from each other. What bothers us is the political and economic difference. Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi are far too autocratic for the average Kenyan. We have all kinds of freedoms that they don't and that's a limit for us. We also have to carry their economies as our economy is larger than many of the others combined depending on how you calculate it. That's the gist of it.
@@mwanikimwaniki6801 I thought Rwanda and Tanzania are comparable to Kenya in terms of gdp per capita Also wouldn't the federation itself be democratic with the countries in it allowed to be more or less democratic in there own countries only And I think it's popular with non east Africans because it means a more united and prosperous Africa and an African super power, kind of we are strong when we are united logic
It would certainly be a positive stabilising influence on the region. However, look at where it's located. Right on the border with countries like Somalia and Ethiopia, two countries with highly volatile states that aren't likely to get better anytime soon. It's possible that the EAF could stabilise these countries, but it's just as likely that they could undermine and destabilise the EAF. Historically in Africa states at war (or more commonly civil war) have inevitably spilled those conflicts across their borders. I wish them luck, but I have only tempered optimism for the success of the EAF.
I don’t think the EAF will be a thing, I think the future of Africa is more so African coalition military interventions like in Mozambique right now and African trade initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area.
You are wrong about prospect of Somalia. Somalia has been went through an experimental state building process and it has learned the hardest way. Somalia is on the way up but you never hear about it - only Somalis know about - because you are stuck in the past and victim of brainwashing by the mainstream media. Watch the space.
@UCV_NL2oKqzBwDM8DfplezbA You got it wrong about Somalia case. Somaliland will remain part of Somalia. It didn't work out after 30 years of trying it. Hopefully Ethiopia will remain intact but then it is difficult to predict but there could be three scenario 1) Remain the current system, Federation states or split into 4 or 5 independent countries. Whatever outcome, Horn of africa (ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea and Djibouti) will create their own EU like model because of they share unique mindset and culture and history that is alien to the rest of east africa.
I think the African Union should go further with integration, and keep leading stabilisation efforts. As well as partnering with the EU to become an alternative trade partner to the PRC (which could benefit both sides in terms of trade and economics, migration, security).
If the EU can barely hold itself together where every country is a democracy and mostly similar economies and values, the African Union has absolutely no chance. These things take centuries, not decades. I do agree that more needs to be done to win over these countries from China though.
@@cobbler9113 "the EU can barely hold itself together" where did you get that? you know the wave of euroscepticism died out in like 2017 or right? No politician with more than 10% of support is willing to campaign on leaving the eu. not to mention, Czechia just ousted their anti eu government, Hungary is about to do so, Bulgarian pro eu sentiment is as high as ever, Poland after the Belorussian migrant crisis is the most supportive of the eu since its joining, and the opposition is leading in the polls. Crisis happen. And they end.
@@cobbler9113 The EU is struggling to determine its future but is holding itself intact. There are however several member states (Spain, France, Belgium) that are struggling with autonomist and/or independence movements.
@@milantoth6246 nothing like some crises to bring people together, even other ones crisis (I'm looking at you UK, thank you for leaving to show how stupid it is because of they can't ...)
yep! you will return back to a 👑wealthy kingdom. Africans ARE they only ones ; who have a normal birthrate. The planet is childless. their lands are looking like this [👵🏻, 👵🏼, 👵🏽, 👵🏾 | 🧓🏻, 🧓🏼, 🧓🏽, 🧓🏾 ] and every year humans get older. every year. 1st & 2nd world countries dont talk about this but have admit its a crisis. China, USA, Japan, Germany South America,..you name it. Italy have 1 baby for every 1000 people. Maternity wards are being closed down everywhere; and companies that sell baby items or toys have move to Africa. *** that is the major factor why AFRICA IS THE FUTURE. children are the future. Many lands are facing extinction and covid came and made it worst; their pets cant help them.
Federalizing st least some parts of africa seems almost necessary. Some countries are just kinda screwed by geography and makes it real tough for them to grow. Like in the US, a lot of states have bad geography (especially some mid west and central US states) that are obviously nowhere near as developed as some coastal states like Cali and NY; however this is greatly mitigated because the US is federalized.
there will be no political lines in Africa's near future. THAT IS the main reason A.U. exist 𝓃𝑜 𝒜𝒻𝓇𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝓌 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓈𝑒 𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑒𝓈 they were drawn in Berlin, Germany at the conference of Thieves + Kidnappers The Europeans did not recognized any of the tribal lands. the same way they never did in America. 👍my guess is that their high IQ-ness just assumed a Chief, distinctive people,language..and a tribal border was not a Nation. "𝐼 𝒹𝑜𝓃𝓉 𝓈𝑒𝑒 𝓃𝑜 𝒸𝒶𝓈𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝓂𝑜𝒶𝓉?" 😆 AND I MENTION the America because again who are you to carved-up people's land and say the borders are-messed up. can we all agree that European culture & ways failed Europe and then they came to other lands and failed them the same way. 🤷 because who drew those lines in Africa?
The rural states/areas get considerable federal support, as I understand it. Is there an appetite for that in East Africa? The EUroZone shows the problems of monetary union without a federal fiscal policy that can support the economically weaker areas.
@@cinnamonstar808 before any political lines existed, tribes would butcher, rape and enslave each other. Stop blaming europrans for what has always happened.
The further political integration could be an issue esp given Africa's own history of intranational issues, but if this manages to come up despite the odds it would serve a great example for others in the region, more if Sudan in addition to South Sudan ultimately become members
With the DRC it's madness, without it it's brilliant. I say this with no sense of urgency, people listing problems here seem to forget countries take hundreds of years to form, and this one looks good, I'd be pleased to see it within the century.
I suspect the having DRC and Rawanda together is functionally impossible. The history is too complex and difficult. I also wonder if Rwanda will end up being an excessively powerful group within the union. One positive of unions like this that selfish national elites often find it harder to do things which hurt their nation, but enrich themselves. It's easy if everyone has the same ethnic background to manipulate people. But mix of cultures makes it harder. So the best policies have a better chance to win, since all the elites can't agree on how they will lobby politicians to enrich themselves. This is why the EU is surprisingly effective, though slow on things like unified charger cables and online privacy.
@@eniolabakare6839 fought 2 wars against 3 of the members, sworn enemy of Rwanda. West and central side of the country where economic and power is, does not speak same language or identify with EAF. Democracy so next president might just sign un out. Keep in mind that that most Congolese believe the current president did not even win fairly. Congo also
With DRC its wealth and all DRC needs is stability. Its the richest country in the world and it would take just a few decades to turn it into a first second world country
Ancient Egypt, Ancient Sudan, Mali Empire, Timbuktu, Great Zimbabwe. Ethiopia's Aksum was called one of the 4 powers of the ancient world. Africa has had several super powers already.
I lived in both Kenya and Tanzania and I think this is a GREAT IDEA. Maybe stage one including only Uganda Kenya and Tanzania, and further down the road integrating the other countries. Similar to what the EU is doing
I think the EAF sounds like a great idea, and I genuinely hope it works out for the best. Foreign made borders have caused a lot of problems in Africa, and I’d like to imagine that a country mutually agreed upon by everyone in it, would be a lot more stable. Plus, if they can get rich and stable, there should hopefully be some bleed over to other African nations, both by EAF investment into those countries, and by passive observation of what works for them.
Including the DRC would be problematic simply from a geographic perspective. The rainforest, great lakes and their adjacent mountains creates a massive barrier which would hinder trade between the two regions. It's just not worth it for now. The DRC would be better off uniting with Angola and Zambia. This way they could jointly develop their major economic hubs such as the Copperbelt region (DRC & Zambia) & the Kinshasa-Soyo-Luanda triangle (DRC & Angola). Congo could also join too.
Congo does alot of business and import most of her mechandise through the Ports of Tanzania... There is not point of uniting Congo and Angola at least from economic perspectives
Eastern DRC has much in common with EA..they also get their imports through EA ports. Swahili is also important and economic machine of EA is roaring. The 2nd largest bank in DRC is Kenyan and the financial knowledge will be of help.
An important point to highlight is that in the drafting of the unified regional constitution it has already been agreed that all the partner states will dissolve some but not all sovereignty of each state it will be a union under CONFEDERATION as opposed to a UNIFIED FEDERATION. 1 currency, 1 market, 1 Passport BUT a sort of council of heads of states for the political structure. No member state will change their current political structure. This in itself has been agreed to prevent any future interstate political friction. It is already in practice as the member head of states have been electing a new chair every few years to coordinate the EAC activities and implementation. The EAC passport is already in use, free movement of goods and people has been piloted for the better part of 2 years and is in the final stages of full adoption by member states. DRC has basically gotten the green light from all member states, basically a done deal. All things considered, there are a lot of factors that nay Sayers latch on to so as to forecast doom and gloom for the EAF but in actuality the member states have already gone through all the labor pains for the past 4 decades and currently heavy infrastructure investments are currently ongoing to link all member states by road, rail and sea before the (EA CONFEDERATION) projected implementation timeline. The EAF is not only going to happen all indications are that its already done. This is why more African countries are applying to join. Somalia has also tossed in its application but for obvious reasons member states are not warming up to a Somalia union for the time being.
Having lived for a couple of years in Cameroon, I can say that one of Africa's problems is that tribal ties are stronger than artificial nationalism that was created by european countries to divide & conquer... They already struggle mightily with favoritism, racism and cronyism when talking about a single country (the Rwanda genocide being an unfortunate example), so creating a supra-national organisation seems doom to failure to me. I'll be the first to applause if they pull it off, but they have huge headwinds.
@@informitas0117 it's not becessarily hate, but rather artificial countries created without local support and accross cultural borders. The British were particularly bad at this, especially in India/Pakistan, or even here in Canada. 😉
if Congo were to join and the other countries managed to help clean it up, the EAF would be insanely powerful. Such a fast growing superpower with lots of land might harbor potential for middle eastern refugees even. Maybe the EU can help out in a way and in any case hopefully establish a good diplomatic relation with the EAF.
@@ebonymaw8457 You'd have to be an absolute moron to turn down free high skill labor that you don't have to educate yourself, as a developing country.
@@FanmadeTime It's possible. The current idea is that most middle eastern refugees go to Europe, which is true. But there are many who go to places like Malaysia and Latin America, so there is some openness to go to somewhere other than Europe, although I doubt they would an to go to the Congo, probably somewhere in Tanzania or Kenya.
EAF would be a great idea if it could work, especially with the DRC. I'm sure breaking down borders would help internally, but also imagine a train system from Port Matadi to Dar es-Salam and all the shipping traffic and jobs that'd create. The more stable countries would help the more chaotic ones stabilize, and such a country would become a beacon of investment.
It's our duty as east Africans to make sure that that dream comes true for our servival. These Kenyans who are raising up petty issues should really style up and know that #EAF is the way to prosperity.
@@magiczone8118 we have nothing in common. We don't even share the same values. Not even Kenyans and Tanzanians trust each other. Kagame and Museveni currently don't see eye to eye. Most of these countries are dictatorships with no democratic institutions to resolve issues.
@@githakambui3983 which values are you talking about if you can't do anything on your own without borrowing? We have nothing in common, really??. Kenya issues with tanzania and uganda with Rwanda are political issues, dictatorship and all that your talking about are political problems which can be solved by political federation. You can't focus on only differences and forget about similarities.
I think when people say superpower they just mean the most powerful African country. The EAF would never become a superpower. I decided to calculate their economical growth, and it will probably reach 2 trillion by 2100. It probably won't even survive until 2100.
You really overuse (or misuse) the term "superpower". It has a very specific meaning, which you are not applying. Most times what you should be using is "regional power" or occasionally "great power". For context, even if you unified every country on the continent into one entity, it STILL would not be regarded with superpower status.
I agree, regional power seems more accurate but they could be a big power or even a superpower if they do catch up and modernize and continue to expand with more members, but that's much longer term and that's assuming the EAF gets off the ground. The EAF reminds me of the EU in the early days, it's not easy to get so many countries together, harmonizing the rules with integration on the political and economic level but with time and a lot of will, it can be done as the EU have proven.
While having potential regional power that can kick out foreign influence in Africa will be amazing, this will be much more likely to turn to ethnic nightmare. Rwanda alone had huge ethnic tensions and South Sudan and DRC are in anarchy because of it. Not to mention the ethnicities of the nations who border them like the Somalis. This will likely fail like the French United States of Africa project in 1960s.
this what most African future super power true challenge not poverty but ethnic conflict. who know maybe ppl would care less of ethnic background when they are rich.
I mean, historically people do love re-drawing African countries' borders to make them more profitable, with no thought for the ethnic groups who live there. They should involve anthropologists in these projects as well as the politicians and economists. (Not least to give anthropologists an actual job)
But doesn't this problem get solved with better education?About 13 years ago leaders would incite people to butcher other communities over the radio here in Kenya (2007 post election violence) but right now promoting a particular tribe to even segregate others will probably get you cancelled.So I'm optimistic better education can change this
@TLDR Just so you know, there are members of the EAF that have military presence in Congo namely Rwanda and Uganda. They are their to help stabilize DR Congo. If Congo becomes more stable there is a chance that Congo will join the EAF.
EAF is definitely a good idea, not an easy idea, but a good idea. It'll definitely take a lot of work to make happen, but I think it'd be a benefit to both Africa and the world at large.
That depends on how much of a say Rwanda's leaders have in the Federation's rule. As the video said, these countries have a lot of people, and some have a lot of natural resources too. There's definitely a lot of potential for the EAF to improve the lives of people in all its constituent countries, just like how the EU has made all its members wealthier. (And if you don't believe the EU has benefited its members, just take a look at Brexit Britain)
Am a Zambian TH-camr and I must say this, This is a very good idea but Bantus have never known Unity since they separated in Nigeria and started migrating to East and South of Africa, separation has always been how they live and this Federation will be the first time that Bantus decided to UNite!
EAC still receives huge support from member states citizenry despite its some shortcomings on timelines. I do see it coming to fruition but it would be faster with just the 5 countries of KE, TZ, UG, RW and BR. Congo and S.Sudan can join later, there situation and/or systems are quite different and too complicated at the moment to do this on the timelines the 5 can accomplish this. I reckon the community shouldn't expand further until it has accomplished its stated end goal of a federated union, or at the least a full monetary union.
again. ✔️The East African Federation already exist. Its literally written on their passports if you go to their channel on TH-cam you can watch all 6 leader via zoom voted to let CONGO in. South Sudan is already a member. he ment Sudan. Somali have already put in an application older than the Congo.
ever the optimist, i think it could be great for all the countries involved-I could see it leading to a cascading effect of a more centralized African Union gradually admitting the rest of the continent, much like the EU-surely catapulting the union into global prominence on par with the US EU and China-with so many moving parts and corruption being an issue anywhere, I hope they can do it, I'm rooting for ya, EAF!
The main reason it is going to happen is because of absence of a strong language barrier. People of east Africa really get along well. A few steps in the right direction and in the end we will have a swahili speaking federal government with sea ports in Atlantic and Indian oceans. Congo region will finally have spine to be developed with close guidance other states. The ragtag guerrillas in congo will be quickly vanguished ..
I think this would probably be the only way forward for the African Continent. They would benefit from a united stand against the western and eastern world trying to take their natural resources. It would be easier for a country to swindle their way into a singular African nation and more difficult or nearly impossible if they did it to a united group of countries (at least I would think). I am rooting for all of Africa, I hope this turns into a successful union for them.
The only ones trying to take their resources right now is China, the west world is paying fair prices, the African people can decide if they want to sell or not.
@@nodusman6445 Not nearly as much as was usual a few decades ago, also, nowdays the abuse is carried away no by force but by bribery of the African leaders, so, is time to stop blaming then colonial ppwers and take a long look at the mirror, on my humble opinion.
This would be a letdown for Rwanda, and why it even included South Sudan? It would be better if it follows the EU model instead of being a one big sovereign state
As a DR CONGO citizen, the Congolese people will never accept to become a federation with ugunda and Rwanda because wounds are still open regarding the recent conflicts where they played a major part.
I don't think u speak for all Congolese people. And one thing I noticed, eastern Congo seems to be abandoned by the Congolese government. It seems their attention is always in western Congo.
What would be REALLY cool is if the countries around the world started federating and eventually a meta-federation forms. A LOT of people seem to be afraid of the idea of One World, but I believe that's the ONLY way we'll solve the global problems we have, especially the vast disparity in opportunities for personal development. In the final analysis, we either rise or fall TOGETHER.
But Secularism is a religious belief. It is separation of church (as in the organisation) and state, not religion and state, that creates a more democratic system. Anyway, federations are cancer. It's just another way to say empire.
I don't even... at your comment lmao. One World. That's such a fucking ignorant and naive comment. People from different parts of the world are separated by different histories, cultures, languages, geographies, timezones and especially different needs and social realities and wants. Meta-federation..... I think there's a better chance that a Vegan Muslim will willingly eat Pork lmao than whatever meta-federation.
All barriers removed [DRC, Uganda, Kenya, TZ, Rwanda and Burundi] is stragically located to be a superb country.... Center of freedom and equality for africa and the whole world.. (next to USA).
DRC needs to join. The prospect of splitting africa into half is literally gold for the economists. Imagine the trade opportunities coast to coast and from NA to SA
@@wesleywagumba812 in my American opinion, this Federal proposal will potentially be a great boon for Africa at large. That said, it depends on the political system that is chosen, autocracies and democracies are incompatible so one of them will have to go. How much power will the federal government have over it's states? Can the population have a national identity with the EAF at large rather than with their own tribes (Local, and state identity e.g Rwandan vs Kenyan. ) Worst case scenario is this: I fear that there are many hurdles to overcome and conflict might be guaranteed if no compromise is found, and when that happens, where the lines are drawn different world powers will support one or the other. Though if the EAF wins the Civil war, your pretty much in the clear and if you can keep the government uncorrupted and stable for atleast a generation. Posterity will uphold the new order.
Stick with the current EAC and then have the DRC as a close friend, similar to the relationship between Australia and New Zealand. Both separate sovereign countries, but with a shared ideology, culture and very close defensive cooperation.
DRC and South Sudan are essentially failed states, including them in the union seems like a really bad idea. I think any advantage the DRC in particular could give to the union would be purely theoretical. Take the Atlantic port for example. That is useless if goods cannot be cheaply and reliably transported from the EAF core to the west coast - the interior of the DRC is one of the most wild and remote places in the world, not to mention infested by warlords and armed groups.
This video belongs to it's own genre of TH-cam videos that I call Afroptimism. It is basically woke western ppl saying attaboy while ignoring all the negative stuff. Compare with this blissfuly ignorant video. th-cam.com/video/NbKoXlYUNY0/w-d-xo.html Just a few months later a civil war broke out in this country.
@@utvara1 That video you linked from CaspianReport, Shivan is Azerbaijani, so how the fuck is he a "woke western ppl" lmao? But however I agree with you on Afroptimism, from both supposed Africans & non-Africans who try to say overly nice things and think those prayers and wishes would solve existential issues in different African nations lol. Yet I am more puzzled about this obsession about people wanting to be "superpowers", when their nations aren't even regional powers or even capable of properly feeding majority of their population for their basic needs rofl. So how about developing countries solve these problems especially corruption first, instead of always trying to blame any foreign power (regardless of western, chinese or even other african powers, for example) for everything that's wrong with certain developing nations?
@@spacecraftcarrier4135 But isn't this supposed to improve their economies though? Corruption is an issue that needs to be solved but at the same time shouldn't we work on improving our economies?Having a united front like this may even give us better bargaining power when it comes to world trade which means more money in our economy hence more profit.And also didn't the United States follow a similar process?
@@utvara1 Hasn't he highlighted some problems that may arise from this idea?Plus the challenges its facing or did you purposefully ignore that.People are trying to find solutions to problems and yet you're out here calling them "too woke".
As someone who lives in east Africa, i would like to highlight that the federation is a mere pipeline dream. The major setbacks are aligned with dictatorial government forces, political tensions and incompetence of the leadership of the member countries and the foreign interferences. Alot is meant to be discussed and if they are met there is a glimmer of hope.
I'm Kenyan and to put it mildly, it's very unlikely to happen. Confederation, maybe, but federation, no. In fact a confederation would most likely work between the original 3 members of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Those 3 countries have the deepest relationships and cultural affinity. The rest of the additions don't really fit in. The fundamental issue is that these countries have different systems of government. Kenya is the only country with a democratic system, unfortunately it's a dysfunctional democracy bedeviled with rampant corruption. Nonetheless, Kenyans enjoy a lot of freedoms that are unmatched elsewhere in the region. A federated system would most likely be a lot more autocratic than Kenyans would live under. It is not something most of us in Kenya would support. I personally hope that day never comes.
It would definitely have more weigh in negotiations. Maybe they could get better trade deals or have a tougher stance against exploitative third countries
I've been excited about the EAF since I heard about it a few years ago. I really hope they successfully form a political Union and that it's successful.
I wish all the best to the people of the region and to their plan, and I hope I'm wrong but I have low expectations for such huge political experiments.
For some reason, Uganda and Kenya can always workout their differences however big they're. I think Uganda and Kenya should go first, then the rest will join. The unfortunate thing preventing progress is the outright dictatorship in Uganda that is now being exported to South Sudan, Rwanda and Burundi.
Update to this video: Both the DRC and Somalia joined the East African Community. Also the East African Federation doesn't look likely to be formed in this decade because of rebel groups in the DRC, Pirates in Somalia, and some of the countries have radically different political and social views. But maybe uniting together into a single Federation can solve all those problems.
The Congo is a bit optimistic. A port on the west coast might sound great on paper, but it is on the other side of the Congo. Firstly there are all the rebel groups fighting. Secondly transporting goods from East Africa to the west coast of the Congo is, to put it mildly delusional. The easiest way to transport goods, would be to load them on ships in East Africa, and sail around the Cape and up to the Congo. Thirdly, building roads and a railway network through the Congo is not feasible because of the rebel groups in the "firstly" point.
Ironically the United states used to do that aswell to California from the east coast, before a train was built ships sailing to the west coast sailed round southern Argentina and Chile.
I'm no where near the African continent but this idea of a United Pan-African state fills me with one of the purest feelings of joy and excitement i have ever felt. Forget about getting a promotion, seeing other people prosper is my happy drug. This, no lie, made my day.I really hope this comes through :)
The integration is well underway. To begin with the one border post (one office manned by both countries) has greatly improved the efficient movement of people and goods. The transport network is the second thing, a railway cutting through the entire region (east to west) is currently under development. The road networks are vastly improved. Thirdly, language barrier is all but gone with Swahili being adopted by all countries as lingua franca. With free movement and interactions all over, the rest will fall into place with time. A monetary union may take time but it is seeming more likely than not especially with the alignment of budget reading days which shows that there's already cooperation between the states. Political union is not urgent. Military union can come thereafter.
I am not quite optimistic to put it mildly: as long as militaries hold a great sway over politics and authoritarian regimes rule in the region, I do not see how credible commitment can be made on such a lofty level (signing a document called “constitution” does hardly qualify). Besides, a manageable common currency requires much more than just political decision. In the EU we are already seeing how a monetary union leads to elevated tensions and serious economic problems among countries with different competitiveness which cannot be solved easily. It is enough to refer to the Mediterranean countries (especially Greece) where devaluation would be probably the only feasible option to prevent continuous accumulation of debt and/or further increase of an already more-than-unsettling unemployment rate. I do not believe if within the elaborated framework of the EU, whose membership consist mainly of developed countries with long experience in cooperation, stable governments and democratic processes, have great difficulties finding appropriate solutions to the aforementioned problems, these African countries could manage better. I fear, an endeavour of such magnitude would only sow the seeds of discontent among the members, eventually leading to armed violence.
I do see problems here as well, but they also could learn from the mistakes of the EU: not unanimity, but majority rule, not only a common currency but full fiskal and monetary policy integration to combat these tensions with some sort of regional council to ensure the rights of each part...
I would love for it to work! Together with the EU, it could help to balance out power struggles in the world, and hopefully help prevent large conflicts.
Not sure if it is a good idea. The internal division and concern in who the new federation would ally with internationally will probably be enough to ensure it never eventuates. Corporate interest in African resources will also be a determining factor. Will an african federation help or hinder that. Is federation the answer for them in general or is copying someone else's solution ?
My money is on ECOWAS, the DRC has way too many issues with several ongoing tribal insurgencies along the Ruanda/Burundi borders. The EAF will happen but they need to wait to allow any other countries to join. To quote analyst Adam Wexlar, “Africa’s tribal system is their biggest drawback preventing real unification, the tribes declare they are capitalist/communist/socialist merely to gain access to weapons”.
I think it would be better to start out without South Sudan and definitely never the Congo, south Sudan needs time to bring itself together after the latest peace deal and remake itself, while the Congo is a headache for the government in Kinshasa, it's big, it's jungle, it's full of armed groups and it has no infrastructure it'll definitely be a nightmare to the government In Arusha
I hope this goes through, a wealthier and more stable Africa is crucial to ending poverty and instability in the world at large. Wow, I had to turn notifications off just because of this one comment. Thanks guys for the attention but the original comment was meant entirely in an optimist rose tinted glasses kind of way. Geeze, a guy can dream no?
It all depends on how stable the new country would be. If it became a dictatorship, then no as I’d rather some democracies than no democracies. However if it could stay democratic and begin to prosper then I’m all for it.
Poverty isn’t going to end. There will always be poverty. The percentage of poor people might decrease but poverty can never be eradicated.
Also the poverty in Africa is by design.
Since the western powers extract everything they can from Africa. So as long as we keep them shackled with "free trade" deals and massive corporations wielding massive Power through the legal System poverty will not be defeated.
But it still would not be a great power let alone superpower
Yeah like the west gonna allow others to prosper...
They will send terrorists, economic hitmen, sabotage it, or the CIA gonna do something like usual, i mean, they got so much experience on how to assassinate leadership or organise a coup.
I hope the EAF works out. The collaboration could lead to more stability and more foreign investment.
There's a danger in true unification in a region historically marked by conflict though. The Rwandan genocide and countless other African atrocities have happened due to ethnic tension within a single, unified country, and the inability to share power. I think the EAF as a single country could bring about more of this sort of tension, especially if the DRC joins. A customs union and political alliance would be extremely beneficial, but I'm not too sold on unification.
@@aidanw9378 i think a large enough federation of so many different ethnic groups would be able to balance each other out and unshackle the smaller undignified, unrecognized ethnic groups in the former countries
@@brileyrowand8278 that's the hope. Its quite possible it just turns into all out civil war though
As someone from Kenya, this would be a tall order. Politics is highly ethnicised in our country alone, our neighbours don't get on with us much despite the EAC and Tanzania prefers a union with SADC.
@@aidanw9378 oh for sure. Thats why i said "Could"
Kenyan here and I have to be honest, the dysfunction that currently characterises the relationships between member states of EAC makes a union highly unlikely (though more likely than any other union on the continent which...take from that what you will). Kenya and Tanzania have tensions as do Uganda and Rwanda. South Sudan and D.R.C are in disarray and God knows what's going on in Burundi. Not to mention a successful federation would need strong democratic institutions to balance power among countries which disqualifies several countries outright like Uganda. Corruption is a common underlying factor and here in Kenya its the bread and butter of the current regime. The potential is massive but the situation as is seems to dull that potential
True, but so many European nations had endemic corruption problems in the past but then ... oh, wait
Kenyatta is well ahead and a true visionary but I don't agree with him about boarderless Africa as this may result in wars especially with a country like Rwanda that is using or used by multinationals and Guerrillas to depopulated Eastern DRC, (Museveni M7)of Uganda now understands the importance of the Union and is working towards it Tshisekedi in the other hand have the same understanding as Kenyatta but need to stabilise the country first
Thank you for your analysis Kiritu. Certainly food for thought.
The sort of tensions between Germany, France, Italy and Belgium when the EU formed were pretty high too. Africans can do if they really want to
Thank for your insight :)
For those negative naysayers, Congo has formally joined the EAC and EAC already is the most integrated region in Africa. While politicians drag their feet in drafting agreements, on the ground, trade is already brisk and people understand one another very well.
Yes and I hope we north African to finish the political problems and united in mhagreb federation
🇹🇳🇩🇿🇲🇦🇱🇾🇲🇷🌹
We gonna be tow African super pawors
Mhagreb and EAF
Good luck to you both, I also hope for a federation in the Fertile Crescent (Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait)
West Africa is also in the process of unifying it's currency. The only stumbling blocks are lingering French influences and fear of being dominated by Nigerian trade. Still I like all of these movements on the continent. Among Africa's issues have been the number of landlocked countries and lack of inter-African trade. These movements solve both issues.
@@fighterck6241 a unified West Africa, from Senegal to Cameroon to Timbuktu would bring a real tear to my eye and even have me shredding my American passport
@@MrLeemurman would LOVE to see this
For me as a Kenyan it is has more to do with the fact that the pieces are moving than whether or not it will work. I need my daughter and son to be citizens of a proud nation on a world stage, not a beggar one.
Do you mean like England is now?
@@montumeroe9593 no African super power country can ever be like England, we know what it feels like to be taken advantage of, so we won`t do it to others.
@@omollo-1 Beautiful, short paragraph.
@@omollo-1 I was referring to the beggar part of the writer's paragraph as I write England has no allies. They are alone no trade deals with America, just a bunch of racists now talking about going to war alone against Russia? Another attempt by an inept Island elite who want to break up the EU won't work. Just like China will hand them their asses without firing a shot.
I could see it happening without Congo and South Sudan but if they actually try to bring both of them into it there's just no chance. Congo really isn't a stable country, more than one hundred different armed groups operate in the east of the country and you could easily argue that it's not only in a civil war right now but that the country has been in a permanent civil war since it's creation. And there's not even an argument about it for South Sudan, it just straight up has been in a permanent civil war since its creation. Do you really think bringing in more ethnicities and outside intervention into it will make things better?
South Sudan seems more likely -
it was a british colony, much smaller, closer geographically, and has an actual chance of stabilizing, being established just last decade.
With the community's help, it has a chance of becoming a backwards, but integrable region in the next decade.
South Sudan would basically be an Achilles heel for EAF
Rwanda is in the middle of a huge joint military operation with the DRC targeting those groups. The EAC and the DRC have a pretty good history of cooperation since the African Great War. I expect that South Sudan and the DRC will be kept out of the EAF for the first few years because they're economically unstable, and as the EAF invests in them, they'll stabilize and be allowed to join later. Like how the EU treats the Balkans.
It could work if the west turns a blind eye to humanitarian concerns. South Sudan and the DRC have never had any real money to spend on their rebel problems. I could imagine a world where these groups are decimated by a massive drone striking and rural security campaign, backed up by big increases in local wealth from all the new business opportunities and public spending.
the South Sudanese civil war is over now, but the country is still in an awful situation and would likely drag the federation down. But if the other members are really willing to bring them along, then why not. Trying to integrate the DRC is just stupid though.
I do hope this goes through, but the DRC definitely wouldn't help them, considering their instability and the fact that much of their population lives on the other side of the rainforest in the west. South Sudan being admitted into the project was already a questionable decision, most of the budget would probably initially have to go into bringing it to the same level of development as the other members.
Yeah, that is what I thought so too! It seems in theory great to have a bigger union with ports on both sides of the continent, but once you really look into it seems more trouble than what is worth. Not to say that the other countries of the union are homogenous, because that is simply not true, but the cultural, geographical and historical differences certainly start to contrast a lot more once you add the DRC into the mix. It seems like it would be smarter to first federalize and stabilize the project, while keeping good relations with the DRC and hopefully a common costumes area.
Yeah I think thats a consern considering Rwanda is haveing so much economic development while the others are behind.
My thoughts exactly.
Yeah, I think adding the DRC is a little too soon, they should stabilize the area first
Also if they really accept Dr Congo they should consider renaming themselves to Central Africa. What? There is already a nation named like that? Don’t worry about them, if they have no problem taking care of South Sudan and Dr Congo I’m sure they can happily handle CAR too
Well,an EAF with DRC is quite hard to imagine,but an EAF with current members is quite likely to form somewhere between the late 2020s to mid 2030s.
I fear the inclusion of the DRC would destabilize it. I think they should first consolidate this federation before including a new member, with the characteristics of the DRC.
@@brunobaia7898 Uganda and Rwanda have military presence in Congo to help with stabilization. If Congo becomes more stable, there is a chance of her joining EAF.
I think having South Sudan in it is a bit risky in the same way DRC is, and though it isn't as unworkable I expect South Sudan issues will delay the EAF's creation. We can hope, though :).
@@blartversenwaldiii I believe that South Sudan isn’t ready for federation as well,but DRC,that’s literally impossible.
@@miladd237 yes, 100% agreed
A Kenyan realist here, the greatest impediment in this dream coming to reality in the political sense is political instability in places like DRC due to rebel groups and also S. Sudan is constantly in turmoil. We have instability in E. Uganda and a dictatorial regime which is contrary to the Federation's democratic principles. Also, there are some economic factors that make the Federation impossible, countries which followed the capitalist economic model during the cold war like Kenya are far much ahead economically making the idea of a common currency difficult to implement.
How is Kenya ahead? We are poor...one Currency is The best idea to ease trade and Commerce
The DRC wouldn’t be part of the initial country, and the other countries could simply adopt Kenya’s more stable currency instead of creating an entirely new currency.
@@erastusmacharia1653 We are way ahead economically, compared to a large part of Africa. Look up the stats yourself
@@triplemoyagames4195 Bro ..what makes ahead...How many industries are locally owned by indigenous Kenyans...Let me Remind you ...we it not for the Western world disturbing Congo...With Coups,and all the Ebola...this Country could Rival even the US.....
@@erastusmacharia1653 I didn't say we're good on a global scale. We're still a 3rd world country and I am angered at the government as much , if not, more than you are. However that does not mean I will not acknowledge our standings among the continent.
The potential in stabilizing the DRC could bring the biggest wealth growth since Saudi Arabia discovered their oil reserves. Super risky though.
Seeing African countries start to really develop and get along is just awesome.
They don’t know they all speak the same language🗣
@@murnyang8381 they don't
@@LuKing2 Indonesia doesn't speak the same language. The Philippines doesn't speak the same language either. India certainly doesn't speak the same language.
@@sieteocho i wasn't making a point about linguistical diversity being a bad thing, but India and phillipines still has a "shared language to use as a ligua franca" , it's more effective for buisness and work that involves different parts of the country. Indonesia i don't know about though
@@LuKing2 People can pick up a lingua franca. If they have to do it, they'll do it. You pick up the lingua franca in one generation or not at all.
their athletics commission should be called EA Sports
They will give some nice competition to the IOC in greed
@Zaydan Naufal downloadable cheerleaders? What a future we live in
It's in the game
🤣🤣🤣🤣
very creative 💗🎀✨
EASports voice "its in the game!"
It is worth mentioning that the committee of experts set up to advise the drafting of the regional constitution recommended that the EAC commit to confederation as the first political step toward federation. Basically, they recommended that the countries retain sovereignty and the right to leave until full federalization occurs, IIRC.
So like America did
Hope it works out. Although it could lead to tensions later on. Before we became a full federation America went through rough time Turning from a confederation to a federation.
A healthy federal system would allow power to shift between the union and the constituent states over time. But to strengthen this federation, sovereignty needs to be well defined from the start. Which powers are to be wielded by the Federation? Which are to remain controlled by the states (the countries as they are now)? How would those states draw up compacts between each other? And how could these power relationships be amended?
@@eksortso Already practiced in Tanzania(Tanganyika + Zanzibar)
@@angelokamugisha8682 Nice! Good precedents make great laws!
Africa needs this! I really hope this starts something with a move to an inviting Federal club that slowly creeps across Africa, bringing security and prosperity to all. Africa would gain so much by getting behind accountable governance systems that gradually reduce internal tariffs and increase internal trade within the continent.
I really hope that the EAF becomes an African superpower, they could bring Africa’s issues even more into the international light
As a person from Rwanda who lives in Rwanda, I'm glad to see this channel talking about Africa. If anyone is interested in videos about Africa, I'd recommend the TH-cam Channel "Risen Africa". It talks about this topic in a little more detail too.
Thanks, I'll check it out!
Urakoze.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Does Rwanda need federation level? I think federation is only possible with the initial 3. Rwanda is already a steadily growing country. Maybe federation could ruin it.
@@baekBlackbeen very possible. But based on the RPF's popularity in the region, there is a fairly good chance it would scoop up alot of seats in the parliament.
Rwanda's strengths are information, stability and organization. It's weakness is a lack of natural resources. Increased access to the eastern ports and South Sudanese oil would boost that. Alot.
Kenyan school children have been singing both East African Anthem and the Kenyan Anthem every morning at school assemblies for over 5 years now. Both anthems must also be sung at all national and government events. The idea of belonging to East Africa too is slowly growing in people's minds. I see this happening.
I don't know why i feel really positive and hopeful for Africa, it's been a conflict zone for so long.
Europe also should strenghten european identity by singing the european anthem
@@ayoCC The European Union Anthem is officially and deliberately without any text. You can't really sing it. I mean you can but that would make it a plus 20 version as every spoken language with in the EU is equal.
@@sirBrouwer the main reason ppl can sing the EAC anthem is cause its in Swahili which is excepted by all the countries. The EU has the disadvantage of ppl having strong national roots in their country and languages, but if the EU wants its ppl to except its anthem it should translate it into Latin for an strong European identity
@@keithteach5649 Latin would disadvantage Germanik, Nordic and Slavic speaking people. We do all share the language of music. That's why we use that version of Ode to the Joy
@@sirBrouwer thats kind of cool
I love the idea of an EAF. It's a logical progression to federalise over time. Small countries with large populations will struggle economically and will continue that way indefinitely (as do large countries with small population). USA and EU are not without their problems, but arguably very much stronger together as a union than the sum of their parts.
Right now, reading a lot of the comments, many do not have faith in the idea of an EAF. A shame really, but change does come slowly and incrementally. All I can humbly say is this, back the idea in principle and the problems will be resolved over time. If there are areas of contention then work on them slowly to see where the balance of opinion "falls". It would be a starting point, then over time "tune" the general consensus with small policy plays and periods of adjustment for the populace. All will adjust to new concepts (cultural amalgamation) and see the pros and cons of each choice. Political discussion must be open (democracy) and will always be fluid and contain some level of compromise. No fixed system of laws ever lasts long.
Corruption is a consequence of poor economic opportunities, grow and be more prosperous EAF, watch the opportunities to grow and corruption will morph into less obvious examples, thus encouraging the populace. Corruption never goes away completely.
Agreed with everything (well written! ❤) but not with this --> "Corruption is a consequence of poor economic opportunities."
Corruption happens when there is no accountability coming to punish a person doing the corruption.
It can be government systems doing the punishment, it can be civil society systems, it can be reputational damage, political alienation...
Furthermore; when people know punishment is likely (when it is "in the culture"), they won't risk behaving in a corrupt was (as much).
Much success & Love, from Slovenia ❤
Rooting for the East Africa Federation to succeed & prosper 🏆
You forgot about ECOWAS which came to being in 1976 and it’s still functional. They use one single passport and enjoy borderless travel. The combined population is over 300 million people…
I think ECOWAS sucks!! The leaders there are not Pan Africanist in perspective, nor do they have progressive economic agendas like East African Community countries. The recent overthrow of French-controlled regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso etc is certainly helping to bring the region back to pro-African reality....❤😊
I hope this does happen for many reasons.
1, the African continent would benefit greatly from the stability this offers.
2, it means that countries will have to put aside their differences and join other countries if they want to compete on the global stage. Which helps push towards prosperity and peace globally.
3, this federation would be able to leverage influence and show other African countries that they can stand on their own feet and be successful.
4. Working together they wouldn't need China sense they can stand on their own
Point 2 doesn't mean global peace, on the contrary, it creates geopolitical blocks that rival each other.
@jin gu not quite. Look at how I have said African continent, as opposed to Africa. The African continent is comprised of 54 countries, who will have a diverse and rich culture. That being said, if several of those countries form federations/unions/etc it will help. The world has 2 very large super powers at the moment in time: China, and the USA. Independently countries can not compete or stand against these two behemoths. So by form federations/unions it helps give smaller countries more benefits. Look at the EU for example. Some of the countries in it are small and not big players on the world stage, but by being in the EU, it greatly benefits them.
If several African countries form similar things, this will be good to help keep the two superpowers in check, and stop them from being bullies.
@@tiredgardener from the perspective of a EU resident. I can see that even from a selfish point. A stable economic and political block to the South of us would be beneficial. If only because it could lower the amount of conflicts.
@@yanniskarageorgiou3573 LMAO you wish. becoming one state will only make the process of Chinese-funded infrastructure and technology projects faster. it is clear to most subsaharan African countries by now that the preferable power to side and trade with is nowhere in the West. It's a no-brainer.
Fellow EACitizens, we may have a lot of issues now and face many stumbling blocks ahead but lets be positive and persistent. Unity will be a great thing economically and politically as it will allow us to set our own agenda and stave off the foreign power bullying we have experienced as Africans.
You are right my fellow East African....love from UG
Kwanza passports tayari ni za EAC
This would also mean that the Netherlands would be the country with the tallest people again. Currently, that's South Sudan
At least until the EU federalizes ;)
@@racheljanehulsey
That's just a brexiteer pipe-dream.
At least in this century it won't happen.
If the Netherlands support the union, at least now we'll know why.
Uh that's not how that works.
The tallest people would simply switch from South Sudan to EAF. They don't go anywhere. They're still there and tall.
@@Voidwurm1701 Yeah, but the average height of the country would go down since you now have a lot more shorter people.
Kenyan here, I'm really rooting for this!
The first initial step to stability and eventually a federation is the strengthening of a joint east african army that will be capable of dealing with skirmishes and restoration of peace.
I really really want that to work out! To manage to stabilise a part of African continent is still better than none!
The southern part of Africa is stable. The most stable, both socially and economically. Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, and "South Africa" are quite powerful and stable economically. ( the issue is more Zimbabwe and Zambia).
@@meocean5499 I'm not sure how long will be stable South Africa (the country) on the long future
I am East African, Kenyan if you must know. I have long admired the southern nations, particularly Botswana. Very well run. RSA, Namibia and Angola are doing pretty well themselves, and that doesn't get reported much in global news. But here in the East, we are not so badly off. I mean we're not in greatest shape, but in good enough shape to dream this dream of a stronger EAC/EAF. I hope we're strong enough to see it through. And wise enough to learn EU's steps and missteps.
I'd love to see an African power that could help stabilize the continent, without being another fing colonizer.
Or another country with legal slavery...looking at you Libya.
The Brits (with the USA and France eventually joining in) spent quite alot of money, lives and time ridding the world of slavery, only for you (along with others) to bring it back in the modern age...
@@dwavenminer lol what
@@mr.mintman7545 did you not know about the open slave markets now in Libya?
Or is it that you did not realise the British went on an imperlistic crusade to rid the world of slavery in the 1800's?
@@dwavenminer USA and UK is what allowed slavery to appear in Libya after they killed Gaddafi and maintained the country in an endless Civil War (like they did to many countries).
During Gaddafi, Libya had the highest HDI (Human Development Index) in Africa.
@@m3c4nyku43 well, let's not forget how African kings were selling their own people to Europeans for easy money
As A Ugandan, I'm not hopeful
A lot of problems in east African have their root cause in poor leadership and corruption,
For Uganda at least, many opportunity's have been lost and/or ignored due to corrupt officials fearing the lose of their power or money, which has caused massive civil instability.
The "People power, our power" movement in Uganda is still going strong and peacefully despite the government's brutal, violent, and unethical suppression but it could very easily turn into a open revolt. Already the Ugandan government has disarmed around half of the armed forces due to both most of the military being young and the "People power, our power" movement striking strongest with the current Ugandan generation.The majority of remaining forces are conveniently comprised of a Army under direct command of the president's son.
I'm not completely sure about other proposed member states, but their likely going through similar turmoil.
The only way East Africa Federation would work is with some kind of Catherine the great level leader and while those people 100% exist in East Africa getting them in to power seems very unlikely.
You're pointing out the sad reality which will make such a union fail. Corrupt politicians will incite their clan/tribe/ethnicity to remain rich and stay in power. That is the unfortunate modus operandi in every single country in Africa, even in the more developed and democratic nations (Ethopia, Kenya and South Africa are prime examples).
like which people?
@@dantebeernal1559 plo lumumba
@@dantebeernal1559 Boniface Mwangi
@@JW-zl5ju Didn't he die?
The most helpful thing that can be done to help improve material conditions in Africa is for western imperialist countries to stop using methods like predatory loans to pressure African countries into adopting economies that are built around providing resources for western consumers. African countries need the right to build their own economies for themselves and to nationalize resources without western interference.
So China is now a 'western imperialist country'? Not sure if agitprop or you are living in the past.
You know nothing
@@cuda260 I am not arguing that China isn't imperialist right now, in fact i believe they haven't been on the path towards Communism or even Socialism since Deng's reforms. What i am saying is that the US has world hegemonic power and works in the economic interests of themselves and their western European allies through imperialist institutions like the IMF and World Bank to force countries in the global south to build their economies in the interest of the US and west instead of themselves. This is done through things like predatory infrastructure loans from these agencies as well as forced coups if necessary.
@@ozarkharshnoisescene No African country us poor, the countries are exploited by both corrupt leaders and the countries which deem themselves rich and developed.
Pretty sure ancient Egypt was Africa's first super power. Maybe the first sub-saharan African super power, since [insert date I'm too lazy to research here.]
Not really, a superpower needs to project strength outside of its direct territory
While strong, it was more a regional power
Pre-industrial(19th century)? - Mali kingdom
There were many sub-saharan African empires, I think a couple went on to reach a similar level to Egypt.
Correction
Egypt is not a sub saharan country and has never been one
@@mocua2910 He didnt imply otherwise
I am Kenyan and to be brutally honest, I've always thought the idea of a federation is not that popular with East Africans. Seems to be quite popular with non-east Africans though (idk why).
I do however think the economic trade bloc has done really well for intra-member trade compared to the rest of Africa and should be the furthest we should go (obviously plus Ethiopia and the DRC) as the countries in the Region are very politically different.
Altsimplified's video on Kenya's economy does shed light on the successes of the EAC. Here: th-cam.com/video/5_hShxrLY8g/w-d-xo.html
Can you look into who is pushing for this globalist project. My nation is being pushed into a European Federation by rich White people outside my country who have their own plans, I would not be surprised to find this is exactly the same for East Africa.
Can I ask, why is it not very popular with east Africans? Is it because the countries too culturally and politically different?
@@bassetts1899 Culturally? Nope. We all have dozens of ethnic groups so we all have a largely similar ethnic make up of bantus, nilotes and cushites. Our lingua franca is similar and you're likely to struggle to differentiate urban east africans from each other. What bothers us is the political and economic difference. Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi are far too autocratic for the average Kenyan. We have all kinds of freedoms that they don't and that's a limit for us. We also have to carry their economies as our economy is larger than many of the others combined depending on how you calculate it. That's the gist of it.
@@utvara1 It has been in the works for a while now.
@@mwanikimwaniki6801 I thought Rwanda and Tanzania are comparable to Kenya in terms of gdp per capita
Also wouldn't the federation itself be democratic with the countries in it allowed to be more or less democratic in there own countries only
And I think it's popular with non east Africans because it means a more united and prosperous Africa and an African super power, kind of we are strong when we are united logic
It would certainly be a positive stabilising influence on the region. However, look at where it's located. Right on the border with countries like Somalia and Ethiopia, two countries with highly volatile states that aren't likely to get better anytime soon.
It's possible that the EAF could stabilise these countries, but it's just as likely that they could undermine and destabilise the EAF. Historically in Africa states at war (or more commonly civil war) have inevitably spilled those conflicts across their borders. I wish them luck, but I have only tempered optimism for the success of the EAF.
I don’t think the EAF will be a thing, I think the future of Africa is more so African coalition military interventions like in Mozambique right now and African trade initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Yeah, and adding the DRC is too soon as well, I think the EAF is still years away from reality
They should build walls in key areas along with other security systems, while also creating joint border security agreements.
You are wrong about prospect of Somalia. Somalia has been went through an experimental state building process and it has learned the hardest way. Somalia is on the way up but you never hear about it - only Somalis know about - because you are stuck in the past and victim of brainwashing by the mainstream media. Watch the space.
@UCV_NL2oKqzBwDM8DfplezbA You got it wrong about Somalia case. Somaliland will remain part of Somalia. It didn't work out after 30 years of trying it. Hopefully Ethiopia will remain intact but then it is difficult to predict but there could be three scenario 1) Remain the current system, Federation states or split into 4 or 5 independent countries. Whatever outcome, Horn of africa (ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea and Djibouti) will create their own EU like model because of they share unique mindset and culture and history that is alien to the rest of east africa.
I think the African Union should go further with integration, and keep leading stabilisation efforts. As well as partnering with the EU to become an alternative trade partner to the PRC (which could benefit both sides in terms of trade and economics, migration, security).
If the EU can barely hold itself together where every country is a democracy and mostly similar economies and values, the African Union has absolutely no chance. These things take centuries, not decades.
I do agree that more needs to be done to win over these countries from China though.
@@cobbler9113 "the EU can barely hold itself together" where did you get that? you know the wave of euroscepticism died out in like 2017 or right? No politician with more than 10% of support is willing to campaign on leaving the eu. not to mention, Czechia just ousted their anti eu government, Hungary is about to do so, Bulgarian pro eu sentiment is as high as ever, Poland after the Belorussian migrant crisis is the most supportive of the eu since its joining, and the opposition is leading in the polls. Crisis happen. And they end.
@@cobbler9113 The EU is struggling to determine its future but is holding itself intact. There are however several member states (Spain, France, Belgium) that are struggling with autonomist and/or independence movements.
@@milantoth6246 nothing like some crises to bring people together, even other ones crisis (I'm looking at you UK, thank you for leaving to show how stupid it is because of they can't ...)
A project still born and the EU will have no weight in the decade to come. He's a geopolitical dwarf.
I come from East Africa-Uganda. We’re on point! The Great East Africa is alive and well…Ujaama!
yep! you will return back to a 👑wealthy kingdom.
Africans ARE they only ones ; who have a normal birthrate. The planet is childless.
their lands are looking like this [👵🏻, 👵🏼, 👵🏽, 👵🏾 | 🧓🏻, 🧓🏼, 🧓🏽, 🧓🏾 ] and every year humans get older. every year. 1st & 2nd world countries dont talk about this but have admit its a crisis. China, USA, Japan, Germany South America,..you name it. Italy have 1 baby for every 1000 people.
Maternity wards are being closed down everywhere; and companies that sell baby items or toys have move to Africa.
*** that is the major factor why AFRICA IS THE FUTURE.
children are the future. Many lands are facing extinction and covid came and made it worst; their pets cant help them.
DRC just joined thanks to the EAC. We hope better improvement in our economies. Am from Uganda. Much love Africa 🌍
Federalizing st least some parts of africa seems almost necessary. Some countries are just kinda screwed by geography and makes it real tough for them to grow. Like in the US, a lot of states have bad geography (especially some mid west and central US states) that are obviously nowhere near as developed as some coastal states like Cali and NY; however this is greatly mitigated because the US is federalized.
there will be no political lines in Africa's near future. THAT IS the main reason A.U. exist
𝓃𝑜 𝒜𝒻𝓇𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝓌 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓈𝑒 𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑒𝓈 they were drawn in Berlin, Germany at the conference of Thieves + Kidnappers
The Europeans did not recognized any of the tribal lands. the same way they never did in America.
👍my guess is that their high IQ-ness just assumed a Chief, distinctive people,language..and a tribal border was not a Nation. "𝐼 𝒹𝑜𝓃𝓉 𝓈𝑒𝑒 𝓃𝑜 𝒸𝒶𝓈𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝓂𝑜𝒶𝓉?" 😆
AND I MENTION the America because again who are you to carved-up people's land and say the borders are-messed up.
can we all agree that European culture & ways failed Europe and then they came to other lands and failed them the same way.
🤷 because who drew those lines in Africa?
The rural states/areas get considerable federal support, as I understand it. Is there an appetite for that in East Africa? The EUroZone shows the problems of monetary union without a federal fiscal policy that can support the economically weaker areas.
@@cinnamonstar808 before any political lines existed, tribes would butcher, rape and enslave each other. Stop blaming europrans for what has always happened.
The further political integration could be an issue esp given Africa's own history of intranational issues, but if this manages to come up despite the odds it would serve a great example for others in the region, more if Sudan in addition to South Sudan ultimately become members
With the DRC it's madness, without it it's brilliant.
I say this with no sense of urgency, people listing problems here seem to forget countries take hundreds of years to form, and this one looks good,
I'd be pleased to see it within the century.
I suspect the having DRC and Rawanda together is functionally impossible. The history is too complex and difficult.
I also wonder if Rwanda will end up being an excessively powerful group within the union.
One positive of unions like this that selfish national elites often find it harder to do things which hurt their nation, but enrich themselves. It's easy if everyone has the same ethnic background to manipulate people. But mix of cultures makes it harder. So the best policies have a better chance to win, since all the elites can't agree on how they will lobby politicians to enrich themselves. This is why the EU is surprisingly effective, though slow on things like unified charger cables and online privacy.
What wrong with congo
@@eniolabakare6839 fought 2 wars against 3 of the members, sworn enemy of Rwanda. West and central side of the country where economic and power is, does not speak same language or identify with EAF. Democracy so next president might just sign un out. Keep in mind that that most Congolese believe the current president did not even win fairly. Congo also
With DRC its wealth and all DRC needs is stability. Its the richest country in the world and it would take just a few decades to turn it into a first second world country
@@lagseeing8341 when did Rwandans and Congolese hate each other this is news for me
Ancient Egypt, Ancient Sudan, Mali Empire, Timbuktu, Great Zimbabwe. Ethiopia's Aksum was called one of the 4 powers of the ancient world. Africa has had several super powers already.
I lived in both Kenya and Tanzania and I think this is a GREAT IDEA.
Maybe stage one including only Uganda Kenya and Tanzania, and further down the road integrating the other countries. Similar to what the EU is doing
I think the EAF sounds like a great idea, and I genuinely hope it works out for the best. Foreign made borders have caused a lot of problems in Africa, and I’d like to imagine that a country mutually agreed upon by everyone in it, would be a lot more stable. Plus, if they can get rich and stable, there should hopefully be some bleed over to other African nations, both by EAF investment into those countries, and by passive observation of what works for them.
Me : *sees thumbnail*
Also Me : Hang on I've heard of this proposal and the DRC isn't in it.
Same
Including the DRC would be problematic simply from a geographic perspective. The rainforest, great lakes and their adjacent mountains creates a massive barrier which would hinder trade between the two regions. It's just not worth it for now.
The DRC would be better off uniting with Angola and Zambia. This way they could jointly develop their major economic hubs such as the Copperbelt region (DRC & Zambia) & the Kinshasa-Soyo-Luanda triangle (DRC & Angola). Congo could also join too.
Eastern half of DRC is already integrating very fast with EAC countries where freedom of movement between them is the order of the day.
Zambia and Congo will be pinnacle of Africa. Watch.
The resources in Congo would pay for that infrastracture ten fold,,this is the richest country in the world in resources
Congo does alot of business and import most of her mechandise through the Ports of Tanzania... There is not point of uniting Congo and Angola at least from economic perspectives
Eastern DRC has much in common with EA..they also get their imports through EA ports. Swahili is also important and economic machine of EA is roaring. The 2nd largest bank in DRC is Kenyan and the financial knowledge will be of help.
Been researching this for a year now and its 100% goong to happen in reality and set a model for all of Africa
An important point to highlight is that in the drafting of the unified regional constitution it has already been agreed that all the partner states will dissolve some but not all sovereignty of each state it will be a union under CONFEDERATION as opposed to a UNIFIED FEDERATION. 1 currency, 1 market, 1 Passport BUT a sort of council of heads of states for the political structure. No member state will change their current political structure. This in itself has been agreed to prevent any future interstate political friction. It is already in practice as the member head of states have been electing a new chair every few years to coordinate the EAC activities and implementation. The EAC passport is already in use, free movement of goods and people has been piloted for the better part of 2 years and is in the final stages of full adoption by member states. DRC has basically gotten the green light from all member states, basically a done deal. All things considered, there are a lot of factors that nay Sayers latch on to so as to forecast doom and gloom for the EAF but in actuality the member states have already gone through all the labor pains for the past 4 decades and currently heavy infrastructure investments are currently ongoing to link all member states by road, rail and sea before the (EA CONFEDERATION) projected implementation timeline. The EAF is not only going to happen all indications are that its already done. This is why more African countries are applying to join. Somalia has also tossed in its application but for obvious reasons member states are not warming up to a Somalia union for the time being.
Wooow, great insight
Having lived for a couple of years in Cameroon, I can say that one of Africa's problems is that tribal ties are stronger than artificial nationalism that was created by european countries to divide & conquer...
They already struggle mightily with favoritism, racism and cronyism when talking about a single country (the Rwanda genocide being an unfortunate example), so creating a supra-national organisation seems doom to failure to me.
I'll be the first to applause if they pull it off, but they have huge headwinds.
I was thinking the same, I really hope the internal hate gets cooled down and that this succeed.
See also: Balochistan, Dagistan, Afghanistan, etc.
So basically you think it would implode like Yugoslavia?
@@informitas0117 it's not becessarily hate, but rather artificial countries created without local support and accross cultural borders.
The British were particularly bad at this, especially in India/Pakistan, or even here in Canada. 😉
@@EpicB Unfortunately yes, I'd LOVE to see rhem succeed, but there's too many fractures and corruption to see it working.
if Congo were to join and the other countries managed to help clean it up, the EAF would be insanely powerful. Such a fast growing superpower with lots of land might harbor potential for middle eastern refugees even. Maybe the EU can help out in a way and in any case hopefully establish a good diplomatic relation with the EAF.
Rwanda and Uganda have military presence in DR Congo to help with stability. If Congo becomes more stable then there is chance of her joining EAF.
middle eastern rufugees in congo?
"might harbor potential for middle eastern refugees"
I thought we were talking about a prosperous Africa
@@ebonymaw8457 You'd have to be an absolute moron to turn down free high skill labor that you don't have to educate yourself, as a developing country.
@@FanmadeTime It's possible. The current idea is that most middle eastern refugees go to Europe, which is true. But there are many who go to places like Malaysia and Latin America, so there is some openness to go to somewhere other than Europe, although I doubt they would an to go to the Congo, probably somewhere in Tanzania or Kenya.
EAF would be a great idea if it could work, especially with the DRC. I'm sure breaking down borders would help internally, but also imagine a train system from Port Matadi to Dar es-Salam and all the shipping traffic and jobs that'd create. The more stable countries would help the more chaotic ones stabilize, and such a country would become a beacon of investment.
It's our duty as east Africans to make sure that that dream comes true for our servival. These Kenyans who are raising up petty issues should really style up and know that #EAF is the way to prosperity.
Facts.
It's never gonna work dude, forget it.
@@githakambui3983 any reason? Even if there is any, we have to find the reason to make it work for us to serviv
@@magiczone8118 we have nothing in common. We don't even share the same values. Not even Kenyans and Tanzanians trust each other. Kagame and Museveni currently don't see eye to eye. Most of these countries are dictatorships with no democratic institutions to resolve issues.
@@githakambui3983 which values are you talking about if you can't do anything on your own without borrowing? We have nothing in common, really??. Kenya issues with tanzania and uganda with Rwanda are political issues, dictatorship and all that your talking about are political problems which can be solved by political federation. You can't focus on only differences and forget about similarities.
Honestly, I am so sick of people saying the "First African Superpower"
Like they've never had empires or Egypt never existed.
I think when people say superpower they just mean the most powerful African country. The EAF would never become a superpower. I decided to calculate their economical growth, and it will probably reach 2 trillion by 2100. It probably won't even survive until 2100.
Sadly it is probably dead on arrival but on the off chance it works out it would be incredible
kenya , Uganda and Tanzania ar the only viable stable members of that group with over 160million people between them those 3 alone are a serious force
I could see it becoming much more like the EU but I don't think they'll form an actual country at least not in the next 10 years but who knows
You really overuse (or misuse) the term "superpower". It has a very specific meaning, which you are not applying. Most times what you should be using is "regional power" or occasionally "great power". For context, even if you unified every country on the continent into one entity, it STILL would not be regarded with superpower status.
I agree, regional power seems more accurate but they could be a big power or even a superpower if they do catch up and modernize and continue to expand with more members, but that's much longer term and that's assuming the EAF gets off the ground.
The EAF reminds me of the EU in the early days, it's not easy to get so many countries together, harmonizing the rules with integration on the political and economic level but with time and a lot of will, it can be done as the EU have proven.
While having potential regional power that can kick out foreign influence in Africa will be amazing, this will be much more likely to turn to ethnic nightmare. Rwanda alone had huge ethnic tensions and South Sudan and DRC are in anarchy because of it. Not to mention the ethnicities of the nations who border them like the Somalis. This will likely fail like the French United States of Africa project in 1960s.
this what most African future super power true challenge not poverty but ethnic conflict.
who know maybe ppl would care less of ethnic background when they are rich.
this just shows that ethnicity is bad for humanity
I mean, historically people do love re-drawing African countries' borders to make them more profitable, with no thought for the ethnic groups who live there. They should involve anthropologists in these projects as well as the politicians and economists. (Not least to give anthropologists an actual job)
@@esajpsasipes2822 If the borders were drawn by ethnic lines from the start the problems would be avoided.
But doesn't this problem get solved with better education?About 13 years ago leaders would incite people to butcher other communities over the radio here in Kenya (2007 post election violence) but right now promoting a particular tribe to even segregate others will probably get you cancelled.So I'm optimistic better education can change this
As a proud east African .I can say. Right on tldr👊👌👌👌
If this happens my ambition to visit every country will become more achievable
@TLDR Just so you know, there are members of the EAF that have military presence in Congo namely Rwanda and Uganda. They are their to help stabilize DR Congo. If Congo becomes more stable there is a chance that Congo will join the EAF.
Don't fool yourself, Congolese don't like Rwanda's regime and barely accept Ugandans. There is still a long way to go if this union has to happen.
EAF is definitely a good idea, not an easy idea, but a good idea. It'll definitely take a lot of work to make happen, but I think it'd be a benefit to both Africa and the world at large.
Rwanda obviously doesn't fit in such federation. This would put the end to the Rwanda's economic miracle.
That depends on how much of a say Rwanda's leaders have in the Federation's rule. As the video said, these countries have a lot of people, and some have a lot of natural resources too.
There's definitely a lot of potential for the EAF to improve the lives of people in all its constituent countries, just like how the EU has made all its members wealthier.
(And if you don't believe the EU has benefited its members, just take a look at Brexit Britain)
If Rwanda takes control of the economic and social aspects of the federation, then I see a good future.
@@jaybee4577 Kenyan provinces alone have a bigger GDP than the entire country of Rwanda and you expect them to lead it lol
@@jaybee4577
Rwanda plundered the Congolese subsoil "the famous economic miracle".
@@eduwino151 Provinces? Towns actually. Mombasa , Eastleigh and Thika probably have a bigger GDP than Rwanda individually
Having Rwanda, Uganda and DRC work together seems like a colossal challenge!
Am a Zambian TH-camr and I must say this, This is a very good idea but Bantus have never known Unity since they separated in Nigeria and started migrating to East and South of Africa, separation has always been how they live and this Federation will be the first time that Bantus decided to UNite!
@Ledama what is this obsession with migrating from Egypt? We don't look like them phenotypically
EAC still receives huge support from member states citizenry despite its some shortcomings on timelines. I do see it coming to fruition but it would be faster with just the 5 countries of KE, TZ, UG, RW and BR.
Congo and S.Sudan can join later, there situation and/or systems are quite different and too complicated at the moment to do this on the timelines the 5 can accomplish this.
I reckon the community shouldn't expand further until it has accomplished its stated end goal of a federated union, or at the least a full monetary union.
again. ✔️The East African Federation already exist. Its literally written on their passports
if you go to their channel on TH-cam you can watch all 6 leader via zoom voted to let CONGO in. South Sudan is already a member.
he ment Sudan. Somali have already put in an application older than the Congo.
Congo has already joined
It was very strategic to allow DRC into the block to connect the region to the Atlantic Ocean
harmonizing fiscal policies? they have progressed more than the EU there lol
@Zaydan Naufal they already have a parliament
ever the optimist, i think it could be great for all the countries involved-I could see it leading to a cascading effect of a more centralized African Union gradually admitting the rest of the continent, much like the EU-surely catapulting the union into global prominence on par with the US EU and China-with so many moving parts and corruption being an issue anywhere, I hope they can do it, I'm rooting for ya, EAF!
The main reason it is going to happen is because of absence of a strong language barrier. People of east Africa really get along well. A few steps in the right direction and in the end we will have a swahili speaking federal government with sea ports in Atlantic and Indian oceans. Congo region will finally have spine to be developed with close guidance other states. The ragtag guerrillas in congo will be quickly vanguished ..
the DRC application has already been approved by the EAC heads of state meeting that happened just recently. DRC is now officially part of the EAC.
I think this would probably be the only way forward for the African Continent. They would benefit from a united stand against the western and eastern world trying to take their natural resources. It would be easier for a country to swindle their way into a singular African nation and more difficult or nearly impossible if they did it to a united group of countries (at least I would think). I am rooting for all of Africa, I hope this turns into a successful union for them.
The only ones trying to take their resources right now is China, the west world is paying fair prices, the African people can decide if they want to sell or not.
@@cesaravegah3787 that's just not true. A lot of countries are taking advantage of African nations in one or another way.
@@nodusman6445 Not nearly as much as was usual a few decades ago, also, nowdays the abuse is carried away no by force but by bribery of the African leaders, so, is time to stop blaming then colonial ppwers and take a long look at the mirror, on my humble opinion.
@@nodusman6445 Oh? Do you not have your own brains to decide to whom you sell and at what price? Blaming everyone else is sign of a child.
@@cesaravegah3787 lithium
1963 Malaysia: They trying exactly what we do
2023 EAF: but better
This would be a letdown for Rwanda, and why it even included South Sudan? It would be better if it follows the EU model instead of being a one big sovereign state
Africa already has a union
A letdown for Rwanda? What a sick joke!
All the best to the EAC, from a South African 🇿🇦
Awesome idea. It's definitely gonna happen. At least progress is being made. And that's a great sign. We are waiting for this new country to be born.
Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda might unite as they have some stability.
As a DR CONGO citizen, the Congolese people will never accept to become a federation with ugunda and Rwanda because wounds are still open regarding the recent conflicts where they played a major part.
I don't think u speak for all Congolese people. And one thing I noticed, eastern Congo seems to be abandoned by the Congolese government. It seems their attention is always in western Congo.
What would be REALLY cool is if the countries around the world started federating and eventually a meta-federation forms. A LOT of people seem to be afraid of the idea of One World, but I believe that's the ONLY way we'll solve the global problems we have, especially the vast disparity in opportunities for personal development. In the final analysis, we either rise or fall TOGETHER.
Smaller communities with like-minded people working together is the way to go. Stfu with this one world government bullsugar.
@@Omni_Shambles no we need 1 secular nation sepreation of religion and state
Extremely unrealistic. Geography alone would make that plan implausible.
But Secularism is a religious belief.
It is separation of church (as in the organisation) and state, not religion and state, that creates a more democratic system.
Anyway, federations are cancer. It's just another way to say empire.
I don't even... at your comment lmao.
One World. That's such a fucking ignorant and naive comment. People from different parts of the world are separated by different histories, cultures, languages, geographies, timezones and especially different needs and social realities and wants.
Meta-federation..... I think there's a better chance that a Vegan Muslim will willingly eat Pork lmao than whatever meta-federation.
All barriers removed [DRC, Uganda, Kenya, TZ, Rwanda and Burundi] is stragically located to be a superb country.... Center of freedom and equality for africa and the whole world.. (next to USA).
DRC needs to join. The prospect of splitting africa into half is literally gold for the economists. Imagine the trade opportunities coast to coast and from NA to SA
As much as I want to see something like this happen, I'm not African, so I don't have a say in matters like this.
As an african I'd say any proper insight from any place all over the world is welcomed.This is literally an African version of the United States🤷
@@wesleywagumba812 in my American opinion, this Federal proposal will potentially be a great boon for Africa at large. That said, it depends on the political system that is chosen, autocracies and democracies are incompatible so one of them will have to go.
How much power will the federal government have over it's states?
Can the population have a national identity with the EAF at large rather than with their own tribes (Local, and state identity e.g Rwandan vs Kenyan. )
Worst case scenario is this:
I fear that there are many hurdles to overcome and conflict might be guaranteed if no compromise is found, and when that happens, where the lines are drawn different world powers will support one or the other.
Though if the EAF wins the Civil war, your pretty much in the clear and if you can keep the government uncorrupted and stable for atleast a generation. Posterity will uphold the new order.
Stick with the current EAC and then have the DRC as a close friend, similar to the relationship between Australia and New Zealand. Both separate sovereign countries, but with a shared ideology, culture and very close defensive cooperation.
DRC and South Sudan are essentially failed states, including them in the union seems like a really bad idea.
I think any advantage the DRC in particular could give to the union would be purely theoretical. Take the Atlantic port for example. That is useless if goods cannot be cheaply and reliably transported from the EAF core to the west coast - the interior of the DRC is one of the most wild and remote places in the world, not to mention infested by warlords and armed groups.
This video belongs to it's own genre of TH-cam videos that I call Afroptimism. It is basically woke western ppl saying attaboy while ignoring all the negative stuff. Compare with this blissfuly ignorant video. th-cam.com/video/NbKoXlYUNY0/w-d-xo.html Just a few months later a civil war broke out in this country.
@@utvara1 That video you linked from CaspianReport, Shivan is Azerbaijani, so how the fuck is he a "woke western ppl" lmao?
But however I agree with you on Afroptimism, from both supposed Africans & non-Africans who try to say overly nice things and think those prayers and wishes would solve existential issues in different African nations lol.
Yet I am more puzzled about this obsession about people wanting to be "superpowers", when their nations aren't even regional powers or even capable of properly feeding majority of their population for their basic needs rofl. So how about developing countries solve these problems especially corruption first, instead of always trying to blame any foreign power (regardless of western, chinese or even other african powers, for example) for everything that's wrong with certain developing nations?
@@spacecraftcarrier4135 agreed
@@spacecraftcarrier4135 But isn't this supposed to improve their economies though? Corruption is an issue that needs to be solved but at the same time shouldn't we work on improving our economies?Having a united front like this may even give us better bargaining power when it comes to world trade which means more money in our economy hence more profit.And also didn't the United States follow a similar process?
@@utvara1 Hasn't he highlighted some problems that may arise from this idea?Plus the challenges its facing or did you purposefully ignore that.People are trying to find solutions to problems and yet you're out here calling them "too woke".
It's a very good idea and it did happen this month of April 2022.
DRC is now a full of EAF.
As someone who lives in east Africa, i would like to highlight that the federation is a mere pipeline dream. The major setbacks are aligned with dictatorial government forces, political tensions and incompetence of the leadership of the member countries and the foreign interferences.
Alot is meant to be discussed and if they are met there is a glimmer of hope.
I'm Kenyan and to put it mildly, it's very unlikely to happen. Confederation, maybe, but federation, no. In fact a confederation would most likely work between the original 3 members of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Those 3 countries have the deepest relationships and cultural affinity. The rest of the additions don't really fit in.
The fundamental issue is that these countries have different systems of government. Kenya is the only country with a democratic system, unfortunately it's a dysfunctional democracy bedeviled with rampant corruption. Nonetheless, Kenyans enjoy a lot of freedoms that are unmatched elsewhere in the region. A federated system would most likely be a lot more autocratic than Kenyans would live under. It is not something most of us in Kenya would support. I personally hope that day never comes.
This is a satanic plan of UK. The English language must be cut of out of African Soil
More collaboration in Africa could go a long way to stablizing the region and preventing more foreign exploitation.
It would definitely have more weigh in negotiations. Maybe they could get better trade deals or have a tougher stance against exploitative third countries
The idea of an entity with ports on the Indian and Pacific is very appealing but honestly EAC Federation probably won't happen
If it's a parliamentary democracy that prioritizes it's people's wellbeing, it's a great idea.
I've been excited about the EAF since I heard about it a few years ago. I really hope they successfully form a political Union and that it's successful.
I wish all the best to the people of the region and to their plan, and I hope I'm wrong but I have low expectations for such huge political experiments.
For some reason, Uganda and Kenya can always workout their differences however big they're. I think Uganda and Kenya should go first, then the rest will join. The unfortunate thing preventing progress is the outright dictatorship in Uganda that is now being exported to South Sudan, Rwanda and Burundi.
This’s the BEST comment I’ve ever seen!
Update to this video: Both the DRC and Somalia joined the East African Community. Also the East African Federation doesn't look likely to be formed in this decade because of rebel groups in the DRC, Pirates in Somalia, and some of the countries have radically different political and social views. But maybe uniting together into a single Federation can solve all those problems.
as a Ugandan am gonna cut you short, we could never be a single country given our political landscape but the unity among East Africans is solid
The Congo is a bit optimistic. A port on the west coast might sound great on paper, but it is on the other side of the Congo.
Firstly there are all the rebel groups fighting.
Secondly transporting goods from East Africa to the west coast of the Congo is, to put it mildly delusional.
The easiest way to transport goods, would be to load them on ships in East Africa, and sail around the Cape and up to the Congo.
Thirdly, building roads and a railway network through the Congo is not feasible because of the rebel groups in the "firstly" point.
East African countries are sending troops in the DRC ...they want those minerals ....
Ironically the United states used to do that aswell to California from the east coast, before a train was built ships sailing to the west coast sailed round southern Argentina and Chile.
I'm no where near the African continent but this idea of a United Pan-African state fills me with one of the purest feelings of joy and excitement i have ever felt. Forget about getting a promotion, seeing other people prosper is my happy drug. This, no lie, made my day.I really hope this comes through :)
The integration is well underway. To begin with the one border post (one office manned by both countries) has greatly improved the efficient movement of people and goods. The transport network is the second thing, a railway cutting through the entire region (east to west) is currently under development. The road networks are vastly improved.
Thirdly, language barrier is all but gone with Swahili being adopted by all countries as lingua franca.
With free movement and interactions all over, the rest will fall into place with time. A monetary union may take time but it is seeming more likely than not especially with the alignment of budget reading days which shows that there's already cooperation between the states.
Political union is not urgent. Military union can come thereafter.
It’s already underway.....Rwanda,uganda,Congo are reconciling a lot of things among themselves.. A lot
Nyerere, Jomo and Obote founded the East African Community back in 1967. From there on there was no looking back.
I am not quite optimistic to put it mildly: as long as militaries hold a great sway over politics and authoritarian regimes rule in the region, I do not see how credible commitment can be made on such a lofty level (signing a document called “constitution” does hardly qualify). Besides, a manageable common currency requires much more than just political decision. In the EU we are already seeing how a monetary union leads to elevated tensions and serious economic problems among countries with different competitiveness which cannot be solved easily. It is enough to refer to the Mediterranean countries (especially Greece) where devaluation would be probably the only feasible option to prevent continuous accumulation of debt and/or further increase of an already more-than-unsettling unemployment rate. I do not believe if within the elaborated framework of the EU, whose membership consist mainly of developed countries with long experience in cooperation, stable governments and democratic processes, have great difficulties finding appropriate solutions to the aforementioned problems, these African countries could manage better. I fear, an endeavour of such magnitude would only sow the seeds of discontent among the members, eventually leading to armed violence.
I do see problems here as well, but they also could learn from the mistakes of the EU: not unanimity, but majority rule, not only a common currency but full fiskal and monetary policy integration to combat these tensions with some sort of regional council to ensure the rights of each part...
I would love for it to work! Together with the EU, it could help to balance out power struggles in the world, and hopefully help prevent large conflicts.
Stupid.. What is UE business here.. It was china development that initiated the ideal
Not sure if it is a good idea. The internal division and concern in who the new federation would ally with internationally will probably be enough to ensure it never eventuates. Corporate interest in African resources will also be a determining factor. Will an african federation help or hinder that. Is federation the answer for them in general or is copying someone else's solution ?
great video and insight, love the way you presented the topic too. i hope it and pray it works out and the rest of Africa follows through.
My money is on ECOWAS, the DRC has way too many issues with several ongoing tribal insurgencies along the Ruanda/Burundi borders. The EAF will happen but they need to wait to allow any other countries to join. To quote analyst Adam Wexlar, “Africa’s tribal system is their biggest drawback preventing real unification, the tribes declare they are capitalist/communist/socialist merely to gain access to weapons”.
I think it would be better to start out without South Sudan and definitely never the Congo, south Sudan needs time to bring itself together after the latest peace deal and remake itself, while the Congo is a headache for the government in Kinshasa, it's big, it's jungle, it's full of armed groups and it has no infrastructure it'll definitely be a nightmare to the government In Arusha