Assessing the Barriers to Establishing a Political Federation in the East African Community

Abstract This study aimed to assess the barriers hindering the establishment of a cohesive political federation within the East African Community and identify the primary obstacles to forming and maintaining a federal state. It analysed the past economic differences, political instability, division, and influence, which affected the internalisation of the region. Political autonomy, dissimilar institutional forms, and foreign policy preferences of member-states were significant impediments to integration. The other reasons attributable to the lack of trust and low levels of social cohesion were ethnic and cultural differences in member states. This study adopted a qualitative approach involving documentary reviews. The study suggested that policymakers should concentrate on bringing about changes to ensure that more states are involved in the decision-making processes to reach the political federation goal.