Tanzania’s Stephen Mbundi assumes office as EAC Secretary General

Outgoing Secretary General Veronica Nduva and incoming Secretary General Stephen Mbundi jointly hold the East African Community flag during the handover ceremony in Arusha. (Photo: X/ EAC)

By Bashir Mbuthia
Saturday, April 25, 2026

Mbundi framed his early agenda at the helm of the institution around tightening how the regional bloc is financed, arguing that obligatory payments from member countries are essential for keeping the institution running effectively.

Tanzanian diplomat Stephen Mbundi has officially assumed office as Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC) after a formal handover in Arusha on Saturday.

Ambassador Mbundi was selected for the role during the 25th EAC Heads of State Summit held in March, where regional leaders approved his appointment for a five-year tenure spanning 2026 to 2031, succeeding Veronica Nduva.

Prior to his appointment, Mbundi served as Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, where he was responsible for EAC affairs and frequently represented the country in high-level regional and international meetings.

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He added that work will also target improving conditions for business activity and reducing delays and costs linked to transporting goods between member countries.

On infrastructure, Mbundi also highlighted the region's transport systems, noting that future development should account for climate-related risks to ensure durability.

“Building infrastructure without considering climate change is risky. We need sustainable investments that can withstand changing environmental conditions,” he said.

He also mentioned peace and security as part of his focus, along with efforts to review existing cooperation arrangements among member states.

Mbundi also plans to visit all partner countries to engage national leaders directly and discuss alignment of priorities between national governments and the regional bloc.

On her part, Nduva expressed gratitude to EAC member states and staff for the cooperation she received throughout her tenure, noting it enabled her to perform her duties effectively.

"As she hands over the mantle, the EAC community welcomes Amb. Mbundi, with great optimism and confidence, looking forward to his leadership in advancing the Community’s vision of a prosperous, competitive, secure, and politically united East Africa," the bloc said.