In his remarks during the opening of the first East African Community’s (EAC), working retreat, President Paul Kagame, said the Community, of which he is also chairman, is in "the "second generation” of regional integration attempts and determined to do better than previous efforts.”

Indeed the vision for the EAC in Kigali is a clear, futuristic one which envisages a united bloc that benefits millions of its diverse citizens, through well coordinated economic and political relations.

The foundation of which is being cemented in Kigali today, as discussions on strengthening regional integration are taken to the roots of the EAC institutions.

The retreat which opened in Kigali yesterday brings together heads of organs and professionals whom the President described as the, "custodians of the principal instruments for fostering greater coordination, focus, and efficiency in the running of EAC affairs.”

Indeed the flurry of activity within the region throughout last year in the consultations to do with deepening regional integration within the bloc, are bearing fruit, this retreat being among some of the activities to come out of the year’s discussions.

2008 ended on a high note with consultations on the establishment of the East African Political Federation.

The hosting of the Kigali Retreat is a sign of the political commitment the country has in being part of the concerted efforts at moving the region forward to other heights of glory.

And so as delegates meet again today, may they be reminded of President Kagame’s appeal to them; "Let us therefore use these next two days to candidly reflect on the current realities and challenges facing our institutions with a goal to re-energize and recommit ourselves to tackling the tasks ahead with greater resolve, a sense of urgency and proper coordination.”

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