DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has pledged continued support for East African Community (EAC) priorities aimed at deepening regional integration, boosting trade and strengthening economic cooperation ahead of the bloc’s Heads of State Summit next month.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan gave the assurance during a farewell meeting with EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva, whose term concludes in April after serving the regional body in a period marked by ongoing integration efforts and policy reforms.
Dr Samia said Tanzania remains firmly committed to facilitating trade among Partner States, enhancing economic collaboration and addressing climate change as part of broader efforts to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development across the region.
She emphasised that regional integration remains a strategic pillar for economic growth, noting that closer cooperation among EAC members creates expanded markets, investment opportunitiesand shared solutions to cross-border challenges.
President Samia revealed that Tanzania is undertaking amendments to the Customs Union Protocol to enable the operationalisation of the Trade Remedies Committee.
The move is intended to strengthen the enforcement of fair-trade practices within the community and ensure that Partner States benefit equitably from the Customs Union framework.
The relevant legal instruments, she said, will be submitted to the Office of the EAC Secretary General in line with established procedures.
The President also reaffirmed Tanzania’s respect for the institutional processes of the Community, particularly regarding the upcoming appointment of a new EAC Secretary General.
She said Tanzania supports the selection of the most suitable candidate in accordance with the EAC Treaty and the principle of rotation among Partner States, adding that the country will cooperate fully with whoever is appointed to lead the Community.
The meeting further reviewed preparations for the EAC Heads of State Summit scheduled for March 7, 2026, in Arusha, where leaders are expected to deliberate on key issues affecting regional integration, including the appointment of a new Secretary General and other priority matters.
President Samia expressed Tanzania’s readiness as host nation to provide the necessary logistical support and a conducive environment to ensure a successful Summit.
On her part, Ms Nduva thanked President Samia for the close cooperation extended during her tenure, describing her as a leader committed to advancing the Community’s development agenda and supportive of women’s leadership.
She commended Tanzania’s continued role in championing regional integration and sustaining momentum toward a more united, stable and economically resilient East Africa.