The Burundian Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has been nominated by his counterparts to lead the one-year rotating presidency of the East African Community (EAC), on July 22 in Arusha. With this nomination, the country strengthens its role on the regional chessboard, is increasing its diplomatic visibility, following several years of absence from the concert of nations due
The Burundian Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, was nominated by his counterparts to lead the one-year rotating presidency of the East African Community (EAC), on July 22 in Arusha.
With this appointment, the country is strengthening its role on the regional chessboard, increasing its diplomatic visibility, following several years of absence from the concert of nations, mainly due to the 2015 crisis. According to specialists in diplomacy, it is a good a sign that testifies to the confidence that the countries of the Community have in Burundi on several points, namely security and the respect of commitments such as contributions. The lines are therefore moving, on the diplomacy side. In addition, several meetings will be held in the country of “Ntare” during this deadline, since the ministry in charge of the EAC will lead the main meetings.
According to an expert on regional integration, the great challenge awaiting President Ndayishimiye is to dispel mistrust between certain member countries and inspire confidence in his peers in the Community. “The member countries of the Community do not seem to be riding in the same train. Interests diverge. Each member country relies heavily on bilateral relations. Also the relations between certain member countries of the Community are not looking good. Public opinion is right to ask all these questions, to raise these concerns. It is legitimate.
However, in my humble opinion, the question should be put another way: How are Burundians preparing to make the most of it to boost the economy?
Despite certain weak points mentioned above, the EAC is today perceived as one of the best integrated regional blocks on the continent and as such represents real opportunities for Burundians. I will cite in particular the administrative facilities, the reduction of customs tariffs, the facilitation of mobility for Burundian citizens, their goods and their services in the EAC countries.
Burundi is cited as the weakest link in the entire group of EAC countries. Among other reasons put forward: a low competitiveness of its economy, a low level of development compared to other countries, a lack of skilled labor, Burundian actors reluctant or not very dynamic in the face of change, Burundi depends on the EAC for more than 90% of its imports via the ports of Mombasa and Dar-es-Salaam.
Businessmen, populations, political decision-makers and other agents of the various administrations must change their behavior by taking advantage of the advantages that integration brings them and by transforming these threats into opportunities. It’s possible. You just have to put in the effort, get the shirts wet.
