Historic Summit in Arusha: EAC Leaders Convene to Shape Future Amidst Key Negotiations and Bold Priorities

Arusha played host to the 23rd Ordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State, where President Yoweri Museveni, alongside regional leaders, delved into key matters shaping the future of the EAC. The summit’s agenda encompassed pivotal issues, including a report on the ongoing negotiations for Somalia’s admission into the EAC and the progress update on the EAC-Led Nairobi process for peace restoration in Eastern DRC.

Under the theme “Accelerating Economic Recovery Through Climate Action and Enhancing Food Security for Improved Livelihoods,” the summit, which commenced recently, sparked discussions aimed at fortifying the EAC’s objectives. President Museveni, expressing anticipation for productive deliberations, emphasized the collective pursuit of the East African Community’s goals.

“I have arrived in Arusha, Tanzania, for the 23rd Ordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State. I am looking forward to fruitful discussions as we advance the goals of the East African Community,” shared President Museveni.

The gathering saw the presence of esteemed heads of state, including Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, Samia Hassan Suluhu of Tanzania, and Kenya’s President William Ruto, who joined the summit on Thursday. South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit is anticipated to assume the chairmanship from Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye, concluding his one-year tenure earlier this year.

Among the critical discussions were the ongoing negotiations between the EAC and the Federal Republic of Somalia for the latter’s potential admission into the EAC. The deliberations, which commenced in Nairobi, Kenya, in August, highlight the region’s commitment to expanding its membership.

EAC’s priorities for the years 2022-2026 were underscored, focusing on the full implementation of the Single Customs Territory, enhancing domestication and implementation of regional commitments, attainment of the EAC Single Currency, and bolstering regional peace, security, and governance. Additionally, the EAC aims to prioritize the development of multi-dimensional strategic infrastructure, an institutional transformation, and increased visibility and awareness among stakeholders. The summit marks a significant step toward shaping the EAC’s trajectory for the years to come.