This archive report was first published on 28 November 2019.
On November 9, 2019, the world marked the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The event served as a reminder of the power of leadership and the impact of bold words.
US President Ronald Reagan's speech at the Berlin Wall in 1987, where he called on Soviet leaders to 'tear down this wall' and 'set your people free', is a notable example of leadership that inspired change.
As the East African Community (EAC) celebrates three months since the Ugandan and Rwandan leaders signed the Luanda agreement to keep their common border open, it would be a good idea to hold a summit of EAC six presidents at the Gatuna border point between the two countries.
However, instead of a Reagan-style presentation, the summit would likely be dominated by taking stock of the gains made in the 90 days since the decision to open the border was made. Technical teams from Immigration and Trade departments from Kigali and Kampala would report on the growing volumes of trade and the number of people who have crossed the border since the solemn signatures in Luanda.
But what if the East African leaders took a cue from Reagan's speech and used the summit as an opportunity to call for greater freedom and cooperation? President Museveni could speak in a booming megaphone, 'General Kagame, sir, set your people free!' President Kagame could respond, 'General Museveni, sir, set my people free!' The other leaders would likely have their own reactions, from President Nkurunziza's sneer to President Magufuli's call to action.
But one leader would stand out for his use of technology - President Uhuru Kenyatta, who would whip out his iPhone and ask, 'Hi Alexa!' or 'Hi Siri...' The other leaders would be left looking embarrassed, wondering what he is talking about.
