Somalia has formally joined the East African Community (EAC) after signing the Treaty of Accession on Friday, December 15, 2023, in Kampala at a ceremony presided over by South Sudan President Salva Kiir, who is the Chairperson of the EAC.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by President Yoweri Museveni and other Heads of State from the EAC partner states, including Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Sudan.

President Salva Kiir, in his remarks, welcomed Somalia’s accession and expressed optimism that the country’s membership will strengthen the EAC’s collective vision for regional development and integration.

He also emphasized the importance of regional peace and security, highlighting the EAC’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s peacebuilding efforts.

Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, expressed his commitment to working closely with the other member states to contribute to the bloc’s success.