Our Reporter
Arusha – In a significant milestone marking the 25th anniversary of the East African Community (EAC), regional leaders called for a comprehensive reflection on how member countries can better harness the opportunities within the community.The call came during the 24th Summit of EAC member states, which celebrated the community’s establishment in 1999.
Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan, delivering the keynote address, reflected on the EAC’s accomplishments over the past quarter-century. However, she stressed the need for a deeper introspection on whether the region's economies are fully capitalizing on the benefits that the community offers.
“While we can be proud of the EAC’s expansion from three to eight member states, we must ask ourselves: Are our economies truly benefiting from the opportunities within the community?” President Hassan remarked. “It’s vital that we address these issues and develop strategies that ensure more tangible and equitable benefits for all member states.”
President Hassan also acknowledged Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni for his pivotal role in the re-establishment of the EAC in 1999, alongside the late Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Benjamin Mkapa. The president praised Museveni’s leadership, stating that he had been a guiding force for the community’s progress.
“President Museveni has been more than just a leader. He has been a teacher, a peacemaker, and a constant source of wisdom, reminding us of our core principles,” President Hassan said.
Burundi’s Vice President, Prosper Bazombanza, while celebrating the EAC’s achievements, also pointed out the importance of assessing the community’s effectiveness in meeting its goals. He emphasized the need for the EAC to evolve not just in size, but in impact, with concrete improvements in trade, development, peace, and security.
“Our slogan of strengthening trade, sustainable development, and peace must translate into real progress that benefits the lives of East Africans,” Bazombanza asserted.
The summit also saw Rwanda’s Minister of Justice, Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, speaking on two pressing challenges facing the EAC: the failure of some member states to meet their financial contributions and the controversial withdrawal of the East African Standby Force from peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Ugirashebuja urged strong measures to ensure that financial obligations are met, stressing the need for transparency and accountability.
“Ensuring financial contributions are made on time is essential for the EAC to function efficiently. We also regret the decision to withdraw the East African Standby Force from the DRC, which undermines our collective security goals and trust among member states,” Ugirashebuja said.
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also reflected on his country’s recent accession to the EAC, highlighting Somalia’s commitment to aligning with the community’s goals. He noted that Somalia has already made significant strides to integrate into the EAC framework, including the implementation of common market protocols, customs union agreements, and financial systems.
“Since joining, Somalia has prioritized the implementation of the community’s programs to ensure full integration into the EAC,” President Mohamud stated.
During the summit, Kenya’s President William Ruto officially took over the EAC chairmanship from South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, underscoring his commitment to advancing the EAC’s vision during his tenure. President Ruto outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at improving the quality of life for the people of East Africa, focusing on enhancing competitiveness, fostering cross-border trade, and attracting investment.
“During my term, I will prioritize improving the competitiveness of our region, boosting trade, and encouraging investment,” President Ruto said. “Our entrepreneurs now have access to a market of over 300 million people. This presents tremendous opportunities for growth and prosperity.”
Ruto also emphasized the importance of financial commitment from member states to ensure that the EAC Secretariat has the resources needed to implement its ambitious programs.
“I urge all member states to fulfill their financial obligations so that the EAC Secretariat can effectively carry out its mission and bring the community’s goals to fruition,” President Ruto added.
EAC Secretary-General Veronica Nduva announced that the 25th anniversary celebrations would continue throughout 2025, with a series of planned activities across all member states to commemorate the milestone.
In a related development, the Heads of State officially endorsed President Ruto for a one-year term as chair of the EAC, succeeding President Kiir. President Ruto is expected to lead the community until December 2025.
This summit not only celebrated the EAC’s achievements but also reaffirmed the commitment of its member states to continue working together for regional integration, economic prosperity, and peace.
Source: The Citizen. EAC heads call for strategic focus on regional benefits, development