The Federal Republic of Somalia officially joined the East African Community (EAC) on 4 March 2024, becoming the bloc's eighth partner state.
Somalia anticipated that membership in the EAC would contribute to the bloc's economic growth and to Somalia's national development, enhancing key areas such as the customs union, common market, and eventual political federation.
For example,
Kenya has significantly benefited from EAC integration, positioning itself as a net exporter and dominating intra-regional trade volumes. Kenyan citizens also enjoy the benefits of free movement within EAC countries, traveling with only a national ID card under the bloc's free movement protocols.
Author's summary: Somalia joins the East African Community.