The entering by Turkish Airlines into the regional aviation industry, which came hot on the heels of Qatar Airways, should be a clear message; this region is on the move.With a population of close to 140 million, the East African Community (EAC) should be a convenient hunting ground for investors seeking large integrated markets.Analysts say the region could be the next big thing regarding economic growth: The discovery of oil and rich minerals, coupled with steady economic growth and political stability, are some of the ingredients that would otherwise heat up Investor confidence. But are East Africans really pulling our weight? If the slow EAC integration and implementations of agreed upon protocols are hindering trade among the five member states, how are we going to fan that critical investor confidence?If we cannot graduate from the selfish (others call them national) interests and embrace a wider, more inclusive pro-EAC views that make more economic sense, how will we be able to flex our muscles in other economic blocs?Charity begins at home; if you can’t put your house in order, you can kiss goodbye to suitors, especially those with the investment capabilities.Africa has lagged behind for too long to afford procrastinating on what can bring prosperity to its people. Dragging feet should not be an option, leave alone, part of the agenda. Where developed countries are strolling, EAC should be running – very fast.
