SOMALIA'S JOURNEY TO BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND THE PATH FORWARD

Somalia's journey to becoming a member of the East African Community (EAC) culminated in its official admission as the bloc's eighth partner state on November 24, 2023. This milestone was achieved during the 24th Ordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State in Arusha, Tanzania, where President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced Somalia's accession.

The Long Road to Membership

The process began in March 2012 when Somalia first applied for EAC membership. Over the years, the application underwent various evaluations and discussions. A significant development occurred on June 6, 2023, when the EAC Heads of State Summit adopted the verification report assessing Somalia's readiness to join the community.

Following the November 2023 announcement, Somalia signed the Treaty of Accession on December 15, 2023, at a ceremony held at the presidential residence in Kampala, Uganda. The final step in the membership process was completed on March 4, 2024, when Somalia's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jibril Abdirashid Haji, presented the instrument of ratification to the EAC Secretary-General at the EAC headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.

Pros and Cons of Somalia’s Membership

Pros:

1. Economic Integration: Somalia can benefit from increased trade opportunities, economic partnerships, and access to the EAC common market, which can drive economic growth.
2. Infrastructure Development: Membership can attract investment in infrastructure, including roads, ports, and energy, vital for regional connectivity.
3. Security Cooperation: Somalia can benefit from regional security initiatives, which can help combat terrorism and piracy.
4. Labor Mobility: Somali workers can find opportunities within EAC states, helping to reduce unemployment and boost remittances.
5. Market Expansion for Somali Businesses: Access to EAC markets can help Somali businesses expand their reach and increase trade volumes.

Cons:

1. Institutional Challenges: Somalia still faces governance and institutional stability issues that may hinder full integration.
2. Economic Disparities: The Somali economy remains fragile, and integration could expose local industries to stiff competition from more developed EAC economies.
3. Security Concerns: Ongoing conflicts and insecurity in Somalia could pose challenges to regional stability.
4. Visa-Free Movement Delays: Despite pledges for free movement, Somali passport holders still require visas to enter EAC states, creating barriers to full integration.

Somalia’s Contributions to the EAC

1. Natural Resources: Somalia possesses untapped oil, gas, and mineral resources that can boost the regional economy.
2. Maritime Trade and Ports: With its strategic location along the Indian Ocean, Somalia can enhance regional maritime trade and shipping logistics.
3. Livestock and Agriculture: Somalia’s livestock industry can provide a reliable supply of meat and dairy products to EAC markets.
4. Cultural and Human Resource Exchange: The Somali diaspora and entrepreneurs can bring investments, skills, and innovations to the EAC region.

Challenges to EAC Integration

Despite Somalia’s accession, the full realization of its benefits remains hindered by:

1. Delayed Visa-Free Movement: Somali passport holders are still required to obtain visas, contradicting EAC’s principle of free movement.
2. Legal and Regulatory Reforms: Somalia needs to harmonize its policies with EAC regulations to facilitate smoother economic and trade integration.
3. Political Stability: Continued efforts are needed to ensure internal stability and effective governance to build confidence among EAC partners.
4. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Somalia needs investments in transport and energy sectors to improve connectivity within the region.

Recommendations for Strengthening Somalia’s Role in the EAC

1. Fast-Track Free Movement Agreements: The Somali government must engage with EAC member states to ensure Somali passport holders can travel freely without visas.
2. Enhance Economic Reforms: Implement policies that support trade, investment, and business growth to maximize the benefits of EAC membership.
3. Strengthen Security and Governance: Political stability and security reforms will foster trust among EAC partners and encourage further economic cooperation.
4. Invest in Infrastructure: Prioritize the development of roads, ports, and communication networks to facilitate trade and mobility.
5. Leverage Diplomatic Engagement: Somalia should actively participate in EAC meetings, negotiations, and regional projects to assert its influence within the community.

Conclusion

Somalia’s membership in the EAC marks a historic step towards regional integration, economic cooperation, and security collaboration. However, challenges remain in fully realizing its benefits, particularly in ensuring visa-free travel for Somali citizens. By addressing institutional weaknesses, investing in economic reforms, and leveraging its strategic resources, Somalia can play a significant role in making the EAC a beacon of prosperity within Africa. A well-integrated Somalia in the EAC could unlock untapped potential and create a stronger, more united East African region.