AT THE beginning of next year, nationals of Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda will be able to move freely within the three countries using just their identity cards, and in some cases, voter and school IDs. They also introduced a single tourist visa that will cover the three territories.

This was the first sign that the three countries are serious about regional integration and have taken the first step. Burundi and Tanzania, the two other member countries of the East African Community (EAC), are yet to come on board.

Rwanda took the first step by scrapping work permits for East African citizens because it recognized the importance of external exposure and sharing of skills and therefore opened its doors wide.

Recently, it went a step further when it announced that citizens of African countries need not apply for a visa prior to travelling to Rwanda; they will get it at the point of entry.

Back now to our region: Recent transports of Rwandans being deported en masse from Tanzania – some who have lived there for decades – is not the spirit of EAC integration. In fact, it raises more questions than answers on the possibility of REAL integration in our region under such a xenophobic atmosphere, when some are forced to leave behind their property.

The people of this region have more in common than what divides them, and if one was to speak for them, then this is just a passing storm, they will triumph in the end.