Ruto Gets New EAC Position As Somalia Replaces DRC
President William Ruto has been elected as the new Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), succeeding South Sudan President Salva Kiir.
The declaration was made on Saturday, November 30, following an election held by the heads of state of seven member countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Somalia.
President Ruto’s appointment coincides with the ongoing 24th EAC Heads of State Summit in Arusha, Tanzania. The summit started on Friday, November 29, and it ends today.
President Ruto’s new position increases his regional prominence at a time when he is still pushing for reform across the continent as the African Union (AU) Champion for Institutional Reform.
Speaking at the conference on Saturday, November 30, President Ruto praised President Salva Kiir for successfully managing the EAC community during the previous year.
“Congratulations, Your Excellency, you made all of us proud,” Ruto said.
Trade remains a key engine for economic growth and regional integration. On account of this, we must address internal barriers to intra-East African Community (EAC) trade.
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) November 30, 2024
We must eliminate non-tariff barriers, enhance infrastructure connectivity and foster regulatory… pic.twitter.com/Yta7aEEXPt
“Under his leadership, the EAC has made immense strides in deepening integration and achieving progress in key areas that define our shared aspirations. His efforts and dedication deserve our almost gratitude,” Ruto added.
Ruto addressed the delegates and expressed his commitment to working diligently with all regional leaders to accomplish the community’s goal and vision.
He also emphasized Kenya’s willingness to push the region’s integration agenda while advocating for the formation of a political confederation within East Africa.
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While appreciating the progress made by member countries in improving bilateral relations, the Head of State urged coordinated efforts to overcome the current issues.
“Your Excellencies, the EAC’s noble ambition is to be a prosperous, competitively stable, secure, and politically united region. This noble ambition unites our efforts and inspires our citizens,” the Head of State remarked.
He added, “It is a vision grounded on the belief that the integration of our economies, the harmonisation of our policies, and the celebration of our diversities will unlock unprecedented opportunities for our shared prosperity.”
Following his election as the area’s chairperson, Ruto committed to focusing on improving the livelihoods of residents inside the region, promoting interregional commerce, and driving investment in the East African economies.
Ruto Gets New EAC Position As Somalia Replaces DRC
