The Somali government is a few steps away from joining the East African Regional Organization (EAC), as talks between the leaders of the EAC member states and a group from Somalia opened in Nairobi on Tuesday.
These leaders include experts from seven (7) EAC countries, the EAC Secretariat, members of the East African Legislative Assembly and the East African Court of Justice and representatives from Somalia.
During the opening of the negotiations, the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community, ASALs, and Regional Development, Hon. Rebecca Miano indicated that the East African Community (EAC) is committed to achieving a broad and dynamic alliance, with high levels of trade within and across the region.
“The community has already contributed to peace and security in Somalia as friendly governments are providing troops as part of the African Union mission in Somalia. People living in the rest of East Africa are eager to welcome their Somali brothers and sisters who have joined the community,” she added.
Somalia’s Minister of Planning, Mohamud Abdirahman Beenebene said that Somalia’s entry into the EAC will play an important role in dealing with security challenges in the Horn of Africa.
He also stressed that Somalia will transform the East African market into a major market for the sale of goods in African regions, to promote development such as economic infrastructure and investment opportunities.
“Somalia’s admission will expand the size of the current EAC market, geographical coverage, diversity and inclusive growth of all partner states as Somalia has achieved immeasurable achievements,” said Somalia’s Minister of Planning.
The Secretary General of the EAC (Dr.) Peter Mathuki pointed out that the coast of Somalia will increase the economic growth of Somalia.
