President Ruto Highlights EAC Achievements During Handing Over of Chairmanship at 25th Summit in Arusha

Arusha, Tanzania – March 7, 2026

President William Samoei Ruto of Kenya, outgoing Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), addressed the 25th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State in Arusha, reporting significant progress in regional integration and economic development during his tenure from November 30, 2024.

President Ruto outlined major accomplishments across multiple fronts. On peace and security, he noted the successful coordination of the EAC-led Nairobi Process with the African Union in restoring stability in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

On trade and economic growth, intra-EAC trade rose nearly 22% from $33 billion in 2024 to $40.3 billion in 2025, with exports growing 32% and imports increasing 13%, narrowing the trade deficit from $3.4 billion to $1 billion. The EAC Customs Bond under the Single Customs Territory was launched in January 2025 to facilitate secure trade across the region.

Highlighting private sector engagement, Ruto cited the 25th EAC Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Trade Fair in Nairobi, which attracted over 2,000 participants, and recognition of regional businesses and women in trade. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to conclude the EAC-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement to enhance market access.

Efforts to remove non-tariff barriers achieved a 56% reduction, while regulatory harmonization continued to facilitate trade. Infrastructure developments included progress on highways, Standard Gauge Railways, inland water transport on Lake Victoria, and the Mombasa-Tanga-Bagamoyo coastal road, reducing cargo transit time by 40%.

Ruto highlighted advances in regional tourism, sports, and digital integration, including the adoption of the UN Global Digital Compact and joining the AI for Good Impact Initiative, to promote a unified digital economy and innovation across the EAC. He stressed opportunities in textiles, proposing harmonized standards and joint marketing to global markets worth $6.8 billion annually.

Acknowledging ongoing challenges, he called for timely remittance of statutory contributions to ensure financial sustainability and the delivery of regional development projects.

As he handed over the chairmanship, Ruto expressed gratitude to fellow Heads of State, the Council of Ministers, EAC staff, and Secretary-General Veronica Nduva, while wishing the incoming Chair success in advancing the EAC’s vision of a prosperous East African region.