Regional integration got a new shot in the arm at the just ended East African Community (EAC) Heads of State Summit in Arusha, Tanzania. The Republic of South Sudan was finally admitted into the bloc of East African nations, bringing its membership to six. South Sudan’s entry is very significant as the regional bloc’s market grows to 162 million people – that should translate into more trade opportunities. The South Sudanese chapter was not the only major landmark at the Summit; the long-awaited biometric East African passport was officially launched, and unlike its predecessor that was only used to travel among member states, the new one will serve internationally. And a new Secretary General was appointed as well. Rwanda’s Dr. Richard Sezibera, ends his five-year illustrious service as EAC Secretary General. A Burundian national, Liberat Mfumukeko, takes over from Sezibera, the first time Burundi takes the helm of the important regional bloc. Hopefully, it will influence events in his country for the better after being entrusted with the important task that places unification and integration at the forefront. He comes from a country that is haunted by conflict. But, Burundi will not live with its ghosts forever, because as the region settles deeper in integration, problems must be nipped before they engulf neighbours. What matters most are the region’s overall interests, not isolated cases that serve more to stifle faster and stronger integration.
