The right to development in east Africa: a review of the constitutional and policy framework

Abstract

The extent to which the right to development (the RTD) has been recognised in the East African states of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda as a legal right drawing from legal and policy frameworks is the central debate of this article. The premise of this paper, therefore, seeks to establish the place of the RTD in the constitutions of the four East African countries. The role law and development policy can play in helping solve underdevelopment in East Africa is also examined. The article observes that the RTD can be realised without express provision in constitutions, laws or policies. It concludes by calling for the incorporation of the RTD in the legal and policy frameworks of all East African countries as a starting point. This should then be underpinned by an empowered and informed citizenship led by visionary leadership.