East African Economic Integration Base Case Economic Analysis 185 East African Economic Integration Base Case Economic Analysis

Abstract: The paper presents a base case economic analysis of the current East African regional integration processes. The fast track political federation processes which started in 2004, establishment of East African customs Union (EAC-CU) in 2005, and the recent 2008 renewed African Economic Community initiatives are part and parcel of the third generation regional integration economic and political reforms pursued by the partner states, and aimed at fostering both national and regional competitive social economic capacities. The paper notes that East African economies are small, but with regional integration, there is a possibility for opening up new business activities, markets, access to finance and technology. These aspects are crucial for maximum utilization of natural and human resources for sustainable economic growth and reduction of poverty. Also, the paper finds tha