Arusha Summit Concludes with Key Infrastructure Projects Approved for East African Community

ARUSHA – The 20th Meeting of the East African Community (EAC) Sectoral Council on Infrastructure has officially concluded in Arusha, Tanzania, with Somalia participating in the regional forum that approved key projects aimed at strengthening connectivity and economic integration across member states.

The Federal Republic of Somalia was represented by a delegation from the Ministry of Public Works, Reconstruction and Housing, led by State Minister Saciid Xeyd, accompanied by the Ministry’s Director General Faarax Cabdinuur Axmed and Director of Roads and Infrastructure Eng. Maxamed Cabdulqaadir (Yariisoow). The meeting brought together infrastructure ministers from across the EAC to deliberate on regional transport corridors, energy connectivity, and cross-border development initiatives.

Somalia has been actively advancing its economic integration strategy at the EAC, with Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan, Somalia’s Permanent Representative to the EAC, previously representing the country at the 59th Extraordinary Meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers held in Arusha[reference:0].

Infrastructure Projects and Regional Connectivity

During the course of the meeting, delegates reviewed and approved strategic plans and projects designed to strengthen infrastructure cooperation among East African nations. The discussions focused on harmonising regulatory frameworks, advancing cross-border integration, and executing the strategic decisions previously set by the EAC Heads of State Summit[reference:1].

Somalia has reinforced its commitment to regional cooperation and development during EAC ministerial meetings, with officials consistently emphasising Mogadishu’s dedication to meeting the bloc’s technical requirements and strengthening its role within the regional framework[reference:2][reference:3].

Somalia’s Commitment to Regional Integration

The Federal Government’s participation in the infrastructure forum underscores its determination to leverage EAC membership for economic growth and development. Somalia formally became the eighth member of the EAC in March 2024, and has since prioritised harmonising policies with the bloc to open new opportunities for investment, trade, and regional partnerships[reference:4].

Somalia and Tanzania have pledged to boost trade and investment ties, with both nations agreeing to establish a Joint Cooperation Commission and implement five memoranda of understanding signed in December 2024[reference:5]. These efforts are part of Somalia’s broader strategy to deepen integration into the East African Community[reference:6].

Infrastructure and Digital Transformation

Somalia’s private sector has also been contributing to regional infrastructure development, with Hormuud Telecom and GIZ signing an agreement to develop an inclusive digital economy in Somalia and across the wider East African region[reference:7].

Somali and Kenyan envoys have pushed for stronger regional cooperation, emphasising the importance of collaboration in economic development, transport connectivity, and cross-border investment[reference:8].

Way Forward

The approved infrastructure projects are expected to play a significant role in boosting economic growth and development across the region. For Somalia, active participation in the EAC infrastructure forum represents a continued commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, implementing strategic initiatives, and capitalising on economic opportunities within the East African Community. These efforts are anticipated to contribute to sustainable development and create new opportunities for Somali citizens.