By Horn Africa News
Tanzania has taken a decisive diplomatic step in support of Somalia by cancelling a seminar in Dar es Salaam that was set to challenge the country’s newly gained membership in the East African Community (EAC).
According to Somali Stream, the seminar—originally scheduled for August 25–26—was organized by foreign-linked institutions, including the Institute for Security Studies and Sahan Research. The event was widely perceived as a political campaign aimed at undermining Somalia’s credibility and participation within the regional bloc.
Planned discussion topics included “Somalia as a Threat to EAC Trade” and “Somalia’s Internal Structural Challenges,” which Somali officials and analysts described as carrying an anti-Somalia agenda.
The Somali Embassy in Dar es Salaam lodged a formal complaint with the EAC Secretariat, prompting the swift cancellation of the event. Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs backed the decision, citing the importance of preserving regional unity and cooperation among member states.
A Somali analyst hailed the move as “a major diplomatic victory,” noting that the seminar’s underlying goal appeared to be shaping negative perceptions about Somalia’s suitability for EAC membership.
The decision comes at a time of growing ties between Somalia and Tanzania, marked by high-level visits and the recent opening of Somalia’s embassy in Dar es Salaam. Observers see this as a clear signal of Tanzania’s support for Somalia’s membership and legitimacy within the regional bloc.
While the cancellation is being celebrated in Mogadishu, Somalia still faces significant challenges in defending its new role in the EAC. The 2026 EAC Summit is expected to serve as a key moment to assess Somalia’s progress and integration within the community.
