President William Ruto is scheduled to attend the 24th Ordinary Summit of East African Heads of State today, Friday, November 29, in Arusha, Tanzania. The summit will convene regional leaders to tackle pressing challenges within the East African Community (EAC) and deliberate on strategies to enhance economic integration, address climate resilience, and bolster regional security.
According to a statement from the State House, President Ruto will focus on removing trade barriers, boosting cross-border commerce, and advancing partnerships in energy, agriculture, and digital innovation to foster job creation and improve livelihoods.
“President Ruto will champion efforts to enhance trade, strengthen regional security, and promote innovation as vital pillars of growth for the East African Community,” the statement read.
Key Focus Areas at the Summit
- Trade and Economic Growth:
- Discussions will center on removing trade barriers to improve intra-regional trade, which saw a 13.1% growth to USD 12.1 billion (Ksh1.569 billion) in 2023.
- The summit will emphasize structural reforms necessary for sustainable growth in agriculture and service sectors, with a goal of further expanding intra-EAC trade, which grew to USD 109 billion (Ksh14.1 trillion) in 2023.
- Security and Peacebuilding:
- Leaders will review initiatives like the South Sudanese Tumaini Initiative and the EAC-led Nairobi Process aimed at restoring peace in South Sudan and the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
- President Ruto has played a pivotal role in facilitating peace talks, including his recent engagement with South Sudanese leaders to address ongoing conflicts.
- Innovation and Integration:
- The summit will highlight advancements in energy, agriculture, and digital technology as critical drivers for regional development and economic resilience.
- President Ruto will also join discussions celebrating the EAC’s 25th anniversary, reflecting on milestones and the journey toward a political federation.
Bilateral Talks and Regional Partnerships
On the sidelines of the summit, President Ruto will hold bilateral discussions with other East African leaders to strengthen partnerships and address mutual concerns. His advocacy for economic integration, security, and innovation underscores Kenya’s commitment to a prosperous and united East African region.