In a significant development, Somalia has formally become the eighth member of the East African Community (EAC), marking this achievement just over a year after the admission of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Mogadishu’s acceptance into the EAC was ratified by regional leaders during the 23rd ordinary summit of heads of state held in Arusha, Tanzania. This decision followed successful negotiations that spanned nearly a year.
Outgoing chairperson, President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, announced the formal inclusion of Somalia into the bloc after an extensive closed-door meeting that lasted over five hours.
Somalia’s initial expression of interest in EAC membership dates back to 2012, although it was declined at that time due to internal challenges, including issues with Al-Shabaab and a lack of a stable legal and political environment.
Renewed optimism arose when South Sudan, facing its own challenges, was admitted in 2016. The admission of the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2022, despite internal conflicts, further fueled Mogadishu’s aspirations.
The return of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who initiated Somalia’s first attempt to join the EAC during his initial term in 2012, prompted a renewed bid to join the bloc. A verification mission dispatched in January of this year confirmed Somalia’s readiness to join the East African Community.
