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Nationalism in the region could derail continental trade bloc

East African Community flag and member states flags Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania and Uganda. Protectionism had undermined cross-border trade and could slow down growth. FILE PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL

By  Ivan R. Mugisha

East African economies are growing at an unprecedented rate, but experts warn that strong nationalist and protectionist stances could weaken the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

A new report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (Uneca) says rising trading tensions between some East African Community member states have resulted in declines in intra-regional trade, as the bloc now trades at just half of its potential.

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