Somalia officially joins East African Community

The official deposition of Somalia's instrument of ratification of the Treaty of Accession at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, concludes the admission process, as outlined in EAC procedures.

During the ceremony, Somalia's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi, presented the country's ratification instrument to the EAC Secretary General, Peter Mathuki. 

“The roadmap will detail how the Federal Republic of Somalia will implement various EAC Commitments such as the Customs Union, Common Market, Monetary Union and Political Federation,” said Dr. Mathuki. 

Representatives from Somalia and the EAC institutions attended the ceremony, which emphasised the shared commitment to creating a more integrated and prosperous East Africa. 

This step concludes the accession process by officially recognising Somalia as a full member of the Community.

Dr. Mathuki emphasised Somalia's role in shaping the EAC's future, highlighting the country's commitment to regional integration principles and objectives. 

“These projects aim to improve connectivity, enhance transportation links and boost regional trade, ultimately supporting Somalia’s economic development and integration,” said the Secretary General.

“Somalia boasts the longest national coastline of over 3,000kms in Africa, linking Africa to the Arab Peninsula, which the region can tap into to exploit Somalia’s blue economic resources and increase intra-regional trade and improve the lives of East Africans,” 

With Somalia's accession, discussions will centre on the integration roadmap, which includes key EAC commitments like the Customs Union, Common Market, Monetary Union, and Political Federation.

Somalia's accession is expected to result in tangible benefits for both the country and the region. 

Dr. Mathuki emphasised Somalia's potential to benefit from EAC-initiated regional infrastructure projects such as transport networks and energy systems. 

These projects seek to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and stimulate economic growth throughout the region.

Abdi reiterated Somalia's commitment to fostering cooperation and collaboration within the EAC framework. 

Somalia recognizes the strategic importance of regional integration and pledges to contribute actively to the achievement of common goals. By participating in EAC activities and initiatives, Somalia aims to foster dialogue, strengthen economic ties, and promote socio-economic development.

Somalia's accession to the EAC signifies a new chapter in regional cooperation, with opportunities for mutual benefit and collective advancement.