ARUSHA, Tanzania — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has touched down in Arusha, Tanzania, to join his fellow East African leaders for the 24th Ordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State.
The summit, which began on Friday, is a significant event as it also commemorates the 25th anniversary of the EAC’s reformation, highlighting the bloc’s journey from its re-establishment in 1999 to becoming one of Africa’s key regional economic communities.
Mohamud was warmly received by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu, who is hosting this year’s summit. Present at the gathering are also South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, the outgoing chairman of the EAC, alongside Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and William Ruto of Kenya.
The summit’s agenda includes discussions on sustainable financing for the EAC, aiming to bolster the economic and political integration within the region. This is particularly crucial as the EAC seeks to enhance its influence and support infrastructure development, trade, and security across its member states.
President Mohamud’s attendance is his first at such a summit since Somalia officially joined the EAC earlier this year, reflecting Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation and its strategic role in the Horn of Africa. The talks are expected to address not only economic growth but also regional security, given the ongoing challenges like terrorism and border disputes.
The celebration of 25 years of “remarkable progress” underscores the EAC’s achievements in fostering unity and economic development among its members. The bloc has expanded from its original three members to an eight-nation alliance, with Somalia being the latest addition, signaling a broader regional integration.
The summit concludes with a cultural gala celebrating the diverse heritage of the EAC countries, symbolizing the unity and shared aspirations of the community. Outcomes from this summit are anticipated to set the course for further integration and cooperation in the years to come.
