Evaluating the Challenges in Implementing The East African Community Peace and Security Architecture:

Abstract

The study evaluated the implementation challenges of the East African Community (EAC) Peace and Security Architecture (PSA). Objectives of the study were to examine the strategies used by EAC in maintaining peace and security, to examine the achievements of the EAC peace and security architecture and to analyze the challenges facing the implementation of the EAC peace and security architecture. The study was guided by a qualitative research approach grounded in interpretivist and employing a case study design, data were collected from peace and security experts, early warning professionals and citizens at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania. Using purposive sampling, a sample size of n=20 participants were taken from a population of 67. This sample size allowed for in-depth exploration, leveraging interviews and focus group discussions as primary data collection methods. Data were analyzed through content analysis using VIVO software, enabling a nuanced examination of patterns and insights within the qualitative data. The study ensured validity and reliability through member checking, content validity indexing, peer debriefing and pilot testing. Ethical considerations, including confidentiality, informed consent and adherence to institutional protocols, were prioritized to maintain the study’s integrity. Findings offer actionable insights for policymakers to improve regional peace and security initiatives within the EAC framework. The findings of this study highlight the EAC multifaceted approach to peace and security, demonstrating both significant achievements and ongoing challenges. The EAC employs a range of strategies, including mediation efforts, joint peacekeeping missions and regional cooperation to address conflicts and foster long-term stability. Its success in mediation reflects a shift towards negotiation as a primary conflict resolution tool, while joint peacekeeping missions underscore the community's collective action capacity. However, challenges such as coordination difficulties, limited resources and the complex nature of regional conflicts hinder the effectiveness of these efforts. Additionally, the EAC’s conflict resolution mechanisms, while proactive, face limitations in addressing specific crises, as seen in the unresolved tensions between Rwanda and Burundi. To strengthen its role, the study recommends enhancing the EAC’s mediation capacity by adopting best practices from organizations like the AU and ECOWAS, developing joint security frameworks and investing in training and capacity-building for peacekeeping forces. Policymakers are urged to prioritize collaboration and resource allocation, ensuring the EAC can effectively address complex regional conflicts. The study also calls for a more nuanced understanding of the socio-political dynamics within the EAC to improve the adoption and effectiveness of its peace and security strategies