Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdelh
Published on 2024-03-04 21:46:36
Somalia has officially become the eighth member of the East African Community (EAC) after completing the process of depositing the instrument of ratification of the treaty of accession with the bloc’s Secretary-General in Arusha, Tanzania. The ceremony, held at the EAC headquarters, saw Somalia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi, present the instrument to Peter Mathuki.
With a coastline of over 3,000km, Somalia now joins the ranks of the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya as a member of the EAC. This membership provides Somalia with the opportunity to participate in various areas of cooperation within the EAC, including trade, investment, industrial development, and the free movement of people, labor, and services.
Dr. Mathuki, head of the EAC Secretariat, mentioned that Somalia now has the chance to contribute to the development of a roadmap for its integration into the EAC. This roadmap will outline how Somalia will implement the EAC’s four pillars: the Customs Union, Common Market, Monetary Union, and Political Federation. In the coming weeks, Somalia will receive detailed information about the state of the EAC integration process across all pillars of regional integration.
Minister Abdi expressed Somalia’s eagerness to contribute to EAC integration by leveraging its strategic location and abundant national resources for the benefit of the region as a whole. He emphasized the importance of adding value to the Community, enhancing collaboration with neighboring countries, and promoting regional economic and social development through increased trade, bilateral agreements, and joint programs and projects.
As a new member, Somalia must designate a ministry and appoint a minister to coordinate EAC matters in accordance with the Treaty. Additionally, the country is expected to elect nine members of Parliament to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and appoint a judge to sit in the First Instance Division of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ).
The inclusion of Somalia in the EAC marks a significant milestone for both the country and the regional bloc. It opens up new opportunities for collaboration, economic growth, and regional development. With its unique position and resources, Somalia has the potential to make meaningful contributions to the EAC and strengthen ties with its East African neighbors.
Source: The East African
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