Somalia has taken a significant step towards fully integrating into the East African Community (EAC) by depositing its roadmap for the process.

This move, announced on Monday in Nairobi, promises to expand the regional market by nearly 20 million people upon completion.

The comprehensive roadmap outlines specific timelines for Somalia to implement the necessary policies and harmonize its laws with those of the EAC. This alignment is crucial for Somalia to join the region’s customs union and common market protocols.

“Today’s meeting signifies a critical milestone in this journey, aligning Somalia’s national processes with regional frameworks to ensure comprehensive integration,” stated EAC Secretary-General Veronica Nduva. “The roadmap outlines essential activities categorized into national and community-oriented initiatives. These include aligning Somalia’s legal framework with established regional standards and ensuring robust participation in EAC programs and activities,” she added.

Although the exact timelines were not disclosed, the Somali delegation expressed a strong commitment to the integration process.

“We are dedicated to working closely with all stakeholders towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all EAC member states and their citizens,” said Abdusalam Omer, Somalia’s presidential envoy for EAC, who led the negotiations for Somalia’s membership last year.

Somalia’s admission into the EAC was formalized by the Heads of State Summit in November, and it became a full member in March this year after depositing its instruments of membership and assenting to the regional treaty. This inclusion marked a significant expansion of the EAC, enhancing its economic and strategic influence in the region.

Currently, only five of the eight member countries in the EAC have fully integrated, allowing them to trade freely with one another after harmonizing their laws. Somalia’s integration will further bolster the regional economy and create new opportunities for trade and cooperation among member states.

The integration of Somalia into the EAC is expected to bring numerous benefits, including increased trade, improved regional security, and enhanced economic development.

The EAC and Somalia are now focused on ensuring that the integration process is smooth and that all necessary steps are taken to align Somalia’s legal and economic frameworks with those of the community.

As Somalia continues its journey towards full integration, the EAC remains committed to supporting the country in meeting the required standards and ensuring that it becomes a fully integrated member of the regional bloc.