The Heads of State of the East African Community (EAC) convened for the 24th Ordinary Summit on November 30, 2024, at the Arusha International Conference Centre in Tanzania.
The leaders deliberated on critical issues aimed at deepening regional integration, accelerating the establishment of a Political Federation, and enhancing multilingualism within the bloc.
The summit was attended by Presidents Salva Kiir Mayardit (South Sudan), Yoweri Museveni (Uganda), Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania), Félix Tshisekedi (Democratic Republic of Congo), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), William Ruto (Kenya), and Vice President Prosper Bazombanza representing Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye.
Multilingualism: Adding French and Kiswahili
A landmark decision during the summit was the adoption of Kiswahili and French as official languages of the EAC, alongside English.
This amendment to Article 137 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community reflects the region's diverse linguistic heritage and aims to foster inclusivity and effective communication among member states.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan lauded the decision, saying, "The inclusion of Kiswahili, a unifying language for East Africa, and French, widely spoken in our region, is a step towards ensuring everyone feels represented and empowered in the integration process."
The Heads of State also directed the Council of Ministers to develop guidelines for the practical implementation of this multilingual policy across all EAC institutions.
President Félix Tshisekedi added, “As a Francophone country, we welcome this decision. It will enhance our participation in regional affairs and strengthen our collective voice.”
Advancing Political Federation
The leaders emphasized the urgency of expediting the EAC Political Federation process, tasking member states, including Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, DRC, and Somalia, to conclude national consultations on the draft constitution by June 30, 2025.
President Yoweri Museveni noted, "Political unity is essential for our region’s stability and economic growth. This federation will cement our collective strength."
Strengthening Peace and Security
The summit addressed the escalating security crisis in eastern DRC, calling for a cessation of hostilities and a merger of the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes.
President William Ruto remarked, “The insecurity in DRC affects the entire region. A unified strategy is critical for sustainable peace.”
Leaders also emphasized the need to fast-track the EAC Mutual Defence Pact and the Counter-Terrorism Strategy to address regional threats.
Economic Integration and Trade
The Heads of State prioritized economic integration by approving the Mutual Recognition of Academic and Professional Qualifications regulations under the Common Market Protocol.
The summit also signed key bills, including the EAC Customs Management Amendment Bill, 2022, and directed the removal of trade barriers.
President Félix Tshisekedi highlighted, “A multilingual EAC will make our market more accessible and foster stronger trade relations among partner states.”
Leadership Transition and Recognition
Kenya was appointed as the chairperson of the EAC for 2024/2025, with Somalia taking on the rapporteur role.
Leaders also commended Justice Charles Nyaweilo for his dedicated service at the East African Court of Justice and appointed Justice Richard Wejuli Wabwire (Uganda) as Deputy Principal Judge.
Youth empowerment was a focal point, with leaders awarding certificates to winners of the 2023 EAC Secondary Schools Essay Competition.
A Vision for Unity and Growth
The summit concluded with a commitment to fostering peace, enhancing trade, and embracing multilingualism to promote inclusivity and unity.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, praised for hosting the summit, stated, “With Kiswahili, French, and English as our official languages, we are embracing our diversity as a strength for deeper integration.”
The decisions made will be reviewed at the next summit, ensuring the EAC continues its journey toward greater unity, prosperity, and representation.
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