Veronica Sworn in as New EAC Secretary General 

The East African Community (EAC) witnessed a historic moment as Veronica Mueni Nduva assumed office as the new Secretary General, taking the oath of office at State House in Juba, Republic of South Sudan. 

The inauguration occurred during the 23rd Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the EAC Heads of State, chaired by Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of South Sudan.

In her inaugural address, Nduva pledged to prioritize deeper integration and development across East Africa. Economic integration, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation, as well as ensuring peace and security, were highlighted as key priorities. 

Notably, she emphasized the importance of advancing social development, particularly by empowering women and youth.

Infrastructure development, climate resilience, and institutional strengthening also featured prominently in her agenda, with a focus on innovative financing solutions and enhanced partnerships.

Nduva reiterated her commitment to upholding the EAC Treaty and promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity within the Community.

Nduva, the first female Secretary General of the EAC, brings to the role a wealth of experience, including service in the Government of Kenya, the US government, and civil society. Her appointment follows the recall of Hon. (Dr.) Peter Mutuku Mathuki, who was redeployed as Kenya's Ambassador to Moscow.

In his remarks, President Salva Kiir Mayardit expressed optimism about the region's progress, highlighting the recent admission of Somalia into the Community and advocating for the acceleration of the East African Monetary Institute to facilitate the establishment of a single currency.

President Kiir underscored the importance of peace and security for economic growth and political stability in the region.

Other leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and Paul Kagame of Rwanda, emphasized the need to address challenges such as non-tariff barriers, climate change, and youth engagement to advance regional integration.

The event also saw commitments from Somalia to participate fully in EAC institutions and pillars of integration, indicating a significant step towards deeper collaboration within the bloc.

In attendance were representatives from Burundi, Kenya, and the EAC Secretariat, highlighting the collective commitment to fostering cooperation and development within the East African region."