Regional leaders unite in congratulating Somalia for joining East African Community

President William Ruto congratulating his Somalia counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for joining the East African Community in November last year. (Photo: PCS)

By Patel Okumu
Friday, November 24, 2023

Kenya's President William Ruto took to Twitter to congratulate the President of Somalia on the country's admission to the East African Community (EAC). In his tweet, Ruto highlighted the importance of countries coming together.

Kenya's President William Ruto took to Twitter to congratulate the President of Somalia on the country's admission to the East African Community (EAC). In his tweet, Ruto highlighted the importance of countries coming together to overcome divisions that hinder the free flow of people, ideas, goods, services, and capital. He highlighted the significance of breaking down needless borders, especially in Africa, to promote economic growth. Ruto affirmed Kenya's commitment to collaborating with partners and countries globally to advance regional integration in the continent, aiming to improve market efficiency and boost trade and investments in Africa.

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud being congratulated by Uganda's Yoweri Museveni.

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Additionally, Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni and South Sudan's President Salva Kiir also extended their congratulations to Somalia on joining the EAC. Their messages echoed the sentiment of fostering unity and collaboration within the East African region.

In Eastleigh, Nairobi, a neighborhood with a substantial Somali population, the news of Somalia joining the EAC was met with enthusiasm. The local Somali community sees this development as a positive step that not only enhances diplomatic relations but also opens up new opportunities for trade and economic collaboration.

Abdi Hassan, a business owner in Eastleigh, remarked, "This is a historic moment for Somalia, and it brings us closer as a region. With Somalia in the EAC, we anticipate increased trade and improved relations."

South Sudan President Salva Kiir congratulating Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Amina Mohamed, a resident of Eastleigh, echoed similar sentiments, underlining the cultural and familial ties that bind the people of North Eastern with Somalia. "We share strong ties with Somalia, and this move will only strengthen our connections. It's not just about politics; it's about fostering unity and collaboration," she noted.

As Somalia becomes the eighth member of the EAC, leaders and residents alike express hope that this integration will contribute to regional stability, economic growth, and enhanced cooperation.