MOGADISHU, (HAN) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Thursday met with Somali legislators representing the country in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) to discuss Somalia’s growing role in the East African Community (EAC) and strategies for effective regional participation.
The meeting, held at Villa Somalia, focused on enhancing Somalia’s presence within the regional bloc and ensuring that Somali interests are well-represented in legislative and policy discussions at the EALA headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
President Hassan Sheikh described Somalia’s membership in the EAC as a “historic and strategic turning point” for the nation.
“Our entry into the East African Community is not just symbolic; it is a gateway for economic transformation, regional cooperation, and collective security,” President Hassan Sheikh said. “We count on you, as our representatives, to be the voice of Somalia and to build partnerships that will benefit our people.”
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre echoed the president’s remarks, urging the Somali lawmakers to collaborate closely with their East African counterparts to promote mutual understanding and shared progress.
“This is Somalia’s moment to show leadership and commitment to regional development,” the prime minister said. “We must take full advantage of our membership by pushing for stronger trade relations, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment across the region.”
The Somali delegation to the EALA — the country’s first since joining the EAC — includes lawmakers appointed in 2024 following Somalia’s formal admission to the bloc in November 2023. Their participation marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s regional integration after years of observer status.
The EAC, which now includes eight member states — Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia — aims to promote economic, political, and social cooperation among East African nations.
Analysts say Somalia’s membership could open new avenues for cross-border trade, infrastructure investment, and employment opportunities, while also strengthening collective efforts to combat insecurity and foster regional stability.
The meeting concluded with a pledge from the EALA representatives to uphold Somalia’s national interests and actively contribute to legislative processes that shape the future of the East African region.
