Regional economic integration: the challenge of dual membership to Kenya- with special reference to eac and comesa

Abstract

This study assesses the challenges that countries face as a result of dual/multiple membership in regional economic organizations. The study has employed the Kenyan experience in EAC and COMESA as a case study. The objective of the study is to asses contradictions that Kenya faces as a result of being a member of EAC and COMESA. With regard to the objectives, the study established that Kenya does not face contradictions by being a member of EAC and COMESA. This is because the two regional bodies collaborate and harmonize their operations. In addition they also cooperate and coordinate their activities through inter-regional coordinating committee which also includes SADC and IOC secretariats. The study also established that Kenya is the major beneficiary of intra EAC and COMESA trade. It was also established that Kenya is an active participant in both organizations and promptly fulfills all the obligations and requirements in both organizations. The study concludes that Kenya faces challenges as a result of being dual member of EAC and COMESA. These include administration of rules of origin, imposition of non tariff barriers, technical barriers to trade, increased competition from firms outside Kenya, and loss of revenue. However some of the challenges can be overcome through harmonizing protocols of COMESA and EAC, enhancing competitiveness of domestic industries, diversification of export base to avoid over reliance on a few commodities and improving joint investment policy within the member countries.