The 24th Ordinary Summit of East African Community (EAC) Heads of State was held on 30th November 2024 at the Arusha International Conference Centre in Tanzania. Presidents from South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Somalia, Kenya, and a Vice President from Burundi attended the summit, where discussions focused on critical regional matters.
During the summit, progress reports on EAC projects were presented, highlighting advancements in the implementation of various community programmes. The Heads of State emphasized the urgent need to expedite the financing formula and finalize a sanctions schedule. Additionally, they directed constitutional experts from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia to submit names by January 31, 2025, and set a June 30, 2025, deadline for concluding national consultations on the EAC political confederation constitution.
The summit also addressed the ongoing instability in eastern DRC. The Heads of State called for the cessation of hostilities and advocated for a more coordinated approach, merging the Luanda Process and the EAC-led Nairobi Process into a unified strategy. The EAC Secretariat was tasked with following up on these efforts, with a report due by April 30, 2025.
Wall Africa Journal, which has reviewed the EAC communiqué, reports that one of the summit’s key decisions was the approval of amendments to the EAC Treaty, making French and Kiswahili official languages alongside English. Additionally, the summit endorsed a protocol on mutual recognition of academic and professional qualifications, further strengthening regional integration.
The summit also focused on enhancing trade relations, promoting youth and women empowerment, and prioritizing environmental protection. The Heads of State directed the EAC Council to develop strategies to eliminate trade barriers, boost cross-border trade, and foster inclusive digital policies.
As part of the leadership transitions, Kenya was designated as the chairperson for the year 2024/2025, with Somalia assuming the rapporteur role. The summit commended President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan for his leadership during his tenure as chairperson and congratulated President William Samoei Ruto of Kenya and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia for assuming new responsibilities.
This comprehensive report, seen by Wall Africa Journal, highlights the ongoing efforts and achievements of the East African Community in addressing critical regional challenges and promoting integration.