Today, high-ranking officials from the East African Community (EAC) are set to participate in a significant flag raising ceremony at the EAC headquarters, signaling another step forward for the Federal Republic of Somalia in its journey towards formal membership in the regional bloc.
The EAC Secretariat, in a statement released over the weekend, highlighted that Somalia will be depositing instruments of ratification with the Secretary General, Dr. Peter Mathuki.
This crucial step solidifies Somalia’s impending formal engagement within the East African Community.
However, the ceremony is taking place against the backdrop of a somber atmosphere in Tanzania, still observing a seven-day mourning period following the passing of the country’s second president, Ali Hassan Mwinyi.
As a gesture of respect, all flags, including those of Somalia, will be raised only halfway.
Somalia’s commitment to EAC was officially sealed in December at the Entebbe State House when President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud signed the treaty of accession.
This historic moment was witnessed by President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan and the Chairman of the EAC Summit, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda.
The 23rd ordinary summit in Arusha played a pivotal role in accepting Somalia’s admission as a full member of the EAC community.
Following the summit, Somalia had six months to deposit the instruments of ratification with the EAC Secretariat. Simultaneously, the Council of Ministers was entrusted with developing a roadmap for Somalia’s integration into EAC organs.
Anticipating progress, the Council of Ministers is expected to present a detailed report on Somalia’s integration at the upcoming summit.
Partner states, including Burundi, DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania, will evaluate the advancements made in this regard.
In a noteworthy development, certain sections of the secretariat have hinted at the expressed interest of Ethiopia and Sudan to join the regional block, underscoring the evolving dynamics of the East African Community.
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