Somalia Backs EAC Vision in First Regional Strategy Talks Since Joining Bloc

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ARUSHA: Somalia has taken an active role in shaping East Africa’s development agenda, joining fellow member states in Arusha for its first high-level participation in an East African Community (EAC) Steering Committee meeting since officially joining the bloc.

Represented by Abdinaasir Omar Kaatib, Director of Economic Development at Somalia’s Ministry of Planning, the Somali delegation contributed to the review of the 7th EAC Development Strategy, a five-year plan set to guide economic integration, trade policy, and regional development from 2026/2027 to 2030/2031.

The meeting, held from August 4–6, marks a major step in Somalia’s regional reintegration, as the country positions itself to benefit from and shape future cooperation on trade, infrastructure, and cross-border investment.

Somalia’s involvement in the strategic planning process is expected to open the door to expanded market access, joint infrastructure projects, and stronger economic ties across the EAC , particularly in sectors such as logistics, agriculture, and energy.

For Mogadishu, the engagement also signals its readiness to play a constructive, long-term role in regional policymaking, while ensuring that Somalia’s development realities are integrated into the bloc’s future programs.

The 7th EAC Development Strategy will serve as the blueprint for cooperation among member states, and Somalia’s early involvement is seen as key to ensuring tailored opportunities for the Horn of Africa nation.