Feasibility of the proposed Monetary Union in East African community: Generalized method of moments approach

Abstract

This study examined the suitability of Theory of Optimum Currency as a basis for feasibility of proposed monetary union in East African Community (EAC) countries; Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. The study sought to determine symmetry of; monetary shocks; inflation rates; fiscal deficit, public debt, real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and degree of openness. Exploratory was used employing panel data covering 2000Q1-2016Q4. Generalized Method of Moments approach was utilized. Results showed convergence in the real exchange rate was statistically significant and negative implying formation of a monetary union reduced combined GDP. Policy makers in EAC countries could concentrate in adapting unfulfilled macroeconomic convergence criteria and strengthening cooperation in monetary policy co-ordinations