Arusha, Tanzania, November 29, 2024 — The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, arrived in Arusha, Tanzania, today ahead of a significant East African Community (EAC) summit. The president was warmly welcomed at the airport by Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and the EAC, Ilyas Ali Hassan, along with Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, signaling the importance of this high-level meeting.
The EAC summit, which brings together regional leaders to discuss critical matters of economic integration and cooperation, is set to be a platform for President Hassan to share the ongoing efforts of his government in rebuilding Somalia. In his speech to fellow EAC leaders, President Hassan is expected to highlight Somalia’s strides in economic development, infrastructure projects, and the role of the Somali people in fostering stronger ties across the region, particularly in trade, education, and sustainable development.
This summit comes at a pivotal time for Somalia, as the country navigates both opportunities and challenges in its efforts to recover from decades of instability. The East African leaders will reflect on the EAC’s achievements since its formation and will engage in discussions about the path forward for regional integration. Key topics are expected to include improving socio-economic conditions, promoting trade, and addressing security challenges that affect the stability of the region.
In addition to the formal sessions, President Hassan is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his counterparts from various East African nations. These discussions will focus on deepening cooperation, tackling regional security concerns, and enhancing trade ties. With Somalia’s role as a key player in the Horn of Africa, President Hassan’s presence at the summit underscores his commitment to regional collaboration.
However, the timing of the summit comes at a moment of political tension within Somalia itself. The country is currently grappling with internal instability, particularly regarding the model for the upcoming elections, as well as heightened political friction in Jubaland. These domestic challenges add complexity to the president’s international agenda, yet he remains focused on advancing Somalia’s interests within the broader East African framework.
As the EAC summit unfolds, all eyes will be on President Hassan’s address, which will likely serve as both a call for regional unity and a reflection of Somalia’s ongoing efforts to integrate more fully into the East African community.
