Somalia Joins EAC Media Forum, Calls For Culture-Led Unity And Regional Development

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ARUSHA: Somalia has reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration by participating in a key East African Community (EAC) meeting focused on media cooperation, cultural exchange, and educational collaboration.

Held in Arusha, Tanzania, the high-level forum brought together directors and senior managers from public and private media institutions across the EAC bloc.

The discussions covered critical areas of regional cooperation, including education, science, cultural diplomacy, and economic ties, all aimed at building a more cohesive and prosperous East Africa.

Representing Somalia remotely, Abdullahi Hayir Duale, Director-General at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, emphasized the power of culture as a unifying force. In his address, he underscored that cultural understanding plays a vital role in peacebuilding, reconciliation, and national recovery.

“Culture connects people beyond borders. It is key to healing divisions and building social cohesion,” Duale said. “Somalia sees cultural engagement as central to regional stability and development.”

The conference, which explored how media and information sectors can contribute to broader regional goals, aligns with Somalia’s increasing involvement in EAC affairs. Though not yet a full member of the East African Community, Somalia has been actively participating in regional dialogues and integration efforts.

Officials said Somalia’s participation in such forums reflects its intent to engage more meaningfully with neighboring states and share in the benefits of collaboration across key development sectors.

The outcomes of the meeting are expected to inform new joint projects on cultural exchange, media development, and educational programs, initiatives that could bring lasting benefits to EAC members and observers alike.

As Somalia continues to rebuild and reposition itself in regional and global arenas, its emphasis on soft diplomacy, through culture, education, and shared values, offers a complementary path to the economic and political integration efforts already underway in East Africa.