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Internationalization-Math - Bloomington

East African Community

Teaching Environmental Issues and Sustainability in East Africa through a Social Justice Lens:
Fulbright-Hays Group Project Abroad in Kenya and Uganda

 

 

Kenya and Uganda are members of The East African Community (EAC). EAC is a regional intergovernmental organization in East Africa composed of seven member states: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The EAC was established in 1967, but after 10 years, this first version collapsed in 1977 because of a brief period of international conflict. In 2000, the EAC was restored and pushed ahead with renewed efforts to remove trade barriers and integrate their economies. The objectives are to promote regional integration, cooperation, and economic development among its member states. It facilitates free movement of goods, services, and people within the region, fostering trade and investment opportunities. The EAC also promotes joint infrastructure projects, harmonization of policies, and collaboration in various sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and tourism. Through its efforts, the EAC strives to create a more integrated and prosperous East Africa for its more than 185 million people and over one million tertiary students combined.

Uganda, located in East Africa, is a captivating country renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality. It is famously known as the "Pearl of Africa". Uganda is home to diverse ecosystems, including the iconic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where endangered mountain gorillas reside. Uganda has stunning national parks, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife safaris. Uganda's culture is a vibrant tapestry of over 50 ethnic groups, each contributing to a rich heritage of traditional music, dance, and art. Its capital, Kampala, is a bustling city blending modernity with a traditional African vibe.

Kenya, located in East Africa, is a diverse and vibrant country known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya, the country offers breathtaking natural beauty. Kenya is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes, making it a popular destination for safaris. Nairobi, the capital city, is a vibrant metropolis with a mix of modernity and traditional charm. Kenyan culture is influenced by over 40 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, music, and cuisine.

Climate change has caused a shift in weather patterns worldwide, including Kenya. Rising temperatures have increased the amount of moisture in the atmosphere, leading to more intense rainfall events. The increase in precipitation presents a mixed picture of opportunities and challenges. It is crucial for the government, local communities, and international partners to collaborate in implementing effective adaptation strategies to harness the benefits and minimize the risks associated with the changing climate patterns.


Bees play a vital role in agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and economic development. Kenya and Uganda have research institutions and organizations that focus on bee research, training, and education. Efforts to protect and sustain bee populations are essential for the well-being of these countries' ecosystems and communities.

Kenyan and Ugandan music offer a rich tapestry of sounds, rhythms, and cultural influences. These diverse musical landscapes reflect the vibrant traditions, contemporary trends, and societal issues of the respective countries, making them an integral part of their cultural identities. 

Aid to Africa plays an important role in uplifting communities, promoting sustainable development, and improving the quality of life for millions of people on the continent. While aid to Africa has undoubtedly been instrumental in addressing various challenges, it is important to reflect on some of its negative aspects.  To maximize the positive impact of aid, it is crucial to prioritize long-term capacity-building, local ownership, transparency, and accountability.

China's relationship with Africa is characterized by multifaceted interactions that have deepened over the years. While Chinese investments have contributed to infrastructure development and economic growth, it is important for both China and African nations to ensure sustainable and inclusive development that benefits local communities and promotes long-term cooperation.

 

  • 2005. "Feature: Kenyan girl with Chinese blood steals limelight.” Embassy of the People's Republic of China - Kenya, July 7, 2005. Accessed April 24th 2014 http://ke.china-embassy.org/eng/sbgx/t202741.htm
  • 2014."Prisoner in China's plea for help found in Saks bag" BBC News Online, May 1st 2014. Accessed May 1st 2014 http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-27237870
  • Brown, Ryan. “African Students See China as a Path to a Prosperous Future” Chronicle of Higher Education, September 10, 2012, accessed April 24, 2014
  • Campbell, Horace. 2007. “China in Africa: challenging US global hegemony” in African Perspectives on China in Africa. ed. Firoze Manji and Stephen Marks. Cape Town: Fahamu, 2007      
  • Chan-Fishel, Michelle. 2007. “Environmental impact: more of the same?” in African Perspectives on China in Africa. ed. Firoze Manji and Stephen Marks. Cape Town: Fahamu  
  • Edoho, Felix M. 2011. "Globalization and Marginalization of Africa: Contextualization of China--Africa Relations." Africa Today 58, no. 1: 103-124. 
  • Lindow, Megan. “China Strengthens Ties With Africa” Chronicle of Higher Education, July 6, 2007, accessed April 24, 2014,  
  • Marks, Stephen. 2007. Introduction to African Perspectives on China in Africa. ed. Firoze Manji and Stephen Marks. Cape Town: Fahamu  
  • Mohan, Giles, and Ben Lampert. 2013. "Negotiating China: Reinserting African agency into China–Africa relations." African Affairs 112, no. 446: 92-110. 
  • Obiorah, Ndubisi. 2007. “Who’s afraid of China in Africa?” in African Perspectives on China in Africa. ed. Firoze Manji and Stephen Marks. Cape Town: Fahamu  

Global justice teaching involves educating individuals about the principles of fairness, equality, and human rights on a global scale. It encompasses examining and addressing global disparities, promoting social and economic justice, and fostering a sense of responsibility towards the global community. Through this teaching, individuals are encouraged to recognize the interconnectedness of our world and the need for collaborative efforts to tackle global challenges such as environmental degradation, poverty, and inequality. It aims to cultivate empathy, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making to create a more just and sustainable world for present and future generations.


Use these graphs to compare various aspects of East African countries.  For a static view of the graph, select the pdf version.  For an interactive graph, use the link to Download the htm graph to your computer.  (If you are only seeing code, look for the "download" button.)