Somalia's EAC membership, historic

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Villa Somalia has described the country's admission to the East Africa Community [EAC] bloc as "historic", noting that the decision will not only open up Somalia but also give it an opportunity to trade with several neighboring nations without much interruption.

For the last five years, Somalia has been pushing for admission to the East Africa Community, leading to Friday's official confirmation which has been lauded by several leaders. Somalia is now the 8th member state of the community which has been existing for decades.

"A historic day for Somalia at the 23rd EAC Summit in Arusha, Tanzania. The Federal Republic of Somalia is honored to join the East African Community as its 8th member, marking a new era of hope and shared prosperity in the region," read the statement from Villa Somalia.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said the move was a "phenomenon of a better future" during his address, adding that joining EAC has been a "dream" for the country. He hailed member states for "doing justice" to the Horn of Africa nation.

"Today, as we open a new page in the history of Somalia, it is a great honor for me to stand before you as we officially become members of the East African Community. This is not only a reflection of our vision but a phenomenon of a better future," he said.

Somalia now joins inaugural member states led by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Other countries that have since joined EAC include South Sudan, DR Congo, Burundi, and Rwanda. Incidentally, Kenya, Uganda, and Burundi are involved in peacekeeping missions in Somalia.

For the last year, the Horn of Africa nation has been involved in serious operations against the Al-Shabaab, a group that has destabilized many parts of the country. EAC membership and a free Somalia will open up the 3,333 Kilometers of coastline, security experts say.

GAROWE ONLINE