(11-05-23) MOGADISHU – The long-awaited plans for Somalia’s integration into the East African Community (EAC) have entered the final phase, according to the Secretary General of the EAC, Peter Mathuki.
In a press briefing held in Kampala on Wednesday evening, Mathuki revealed that the final report detailing Somalia’s status and conditions for approval has been submitted to the EAC member countries’ top bodies. The council will soon review this report to make a formal decision on whether Somalia will be officially admitted into the EAC.
“The process of Somalia joining the community is underway,” Mathuki said. “The report is being prepared and shared with colleagues to express their opinions. Now, the next step is to submit the report to the EAC Cabinet.”
The criteria for admitting new countries into the EAC include social acceptance, adherence to internationally recognized principles of good governance and rule of law, respect for human rights, and commitment to strengthening the integration of the East African region.
Somalia, a country that has been working diligently to improve its political stability and security, views EAC integration as a key step towards achieving economic growth and regional stability.
If approved, Somalia will follow in the footsteps of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the latest country to join the EAC, which officially became a member on March 29, 2022.
The EAC, an intergovernmental organization composed of six countries in the African Great Lakes region in eastern Africa, aims to improve cooperation among its member states. The inclusion of Somalia, a country that has been steadily working on its recovery and stability, would signify a significant moment in the history of the EAC, marking an optimistic step forward in regional integration.
The integration of Somalia into the EAC will not only enhance regional cooperation but it is also expected to provide a boost to the country’s economy by opening up trade and investment opportunities with other member states.
As the world waits for the decision, Somalia stands on the brink of a major milestone in its path towards stability and prosperity. The country’s hopeful admission into the EAC could potentially set a new standard for overcoming challenges and embracing regional cooperation in East Africa.
As this promising chapter unfolds, the people of Somalia, as well as the entire East African community, anticipate a future defined by increased collaboration, mutual growth, and enhance peace and security.
© Halqabsi News
