President William Ruto of Kenya has assumed the chairmanship of the East African Community (EAC) during the 24th Heads of State Summit in Arusha, Tanzania. The summit, which began on November 29 and concludes today, positions Ruto to play a significant role in shaping regional cooperation and addressing critical challenges.
This appointment comes as Ruto continues to push for broader reforms across the continent, leveraging his position as the African Union (AU) Champion for Institutional Reform. His new leadership within the EAC aligns with his vision of deeper political and economic integration in East Africa.
During his speech on November 30, Ruto praised outgoing chair President Salva Kiir for his leadership over the past year. “Congratulations Your Excellency, you made all of us proud,” he said, acknowledging Kiir’s efforts in advancing the EAC’s agenda. Ruto reiterated Kenya’s commitment to fostering regional unity and called for the establishment of a political confederation to strengthen collaboration within the bloc.
Ruto emphasized the importance of tackling the region’s challenges, including security concerns, economic development, and political cooperation. He announced plans for an upcoming meeting involving leaders from Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Uganda to address tensions in the Horn of Africa. The meeting, although not yet scheduled, would be the first direct talks between Somalia and Ethiopia since a contentious Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland in January 2024.
Somalia has maintained that it will not engage with Ethiopia until the MoU is rescinded, citing violations of its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Mediation efforts through the Turkiye-led “Ankara Process” have faced delays, but discussions continue. Ruto’s leadership in facilitating dialogue between the two nations will be crucial in resolving the impasse.
Ruto’s new role also has implications for the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship election in February 2024 in Addis Ababa. His influence as EAC chair is expected to support Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the AUC chair, bolstering Kenya’s diplomatic clout.
In a significant development, The Wall Africa Journal has learned that Ethiopia is preparing to join the EAC. This expansion would enhance the bloc’s political and economic influence, fostering greater regional integration. Ethiopia’s membership is expected to strengthen ties and promote cooperation across East Africa, aligning with Ruto’s vision for a more unified and resilient region.
As Ruto begins his tenure as EAC chair, his leadership will be pivotal in advancing the bloc’s integration goals, resolving regional disputes, and promoting peace and prosperity. His efforts to unite East African nations and address critical challenges will define the community’s trajectory in the coming years.