A customs union linking Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda came into force on 1 January 200 following six years of negotiations. The new trading bloc is a first step towards a common market and will gradually enable goods to pass between the three countries tax-free. The member states hope it will also lead to a common currency and eventually a political federation. Read a BBC report here.

BBC reporters across Africa describe the storiesthat made them feel optimistic, depressed and laugh out loud during 2004. They also predict the biggest stories for next year.