President William Ruto has been elected the chair of East African Community (EAC), taking over from his South Sudan counterpart Salva Kiir. Ruto will hold the position for the next one year.
He was appointed to the seat during the 24th Summit of the EAC Heads of State in Arusha, Tanzania.
The 24th Ordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State brings together the region’s leaders to deliberate on critical issues shaping the future of East Africa.
The high-profile gathering, held under the overarching theme of the EAC’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, serves as a platform to assess the achievements of the past 25 years while charting the way forward for deeper integration.
Key agenda items include strengthening the region’s economic resilience, advancing peace and security, and promoting initiatives that foster intra-regional trade and development.
The announcement of Ruto’s new position was made on Saturday following an election conducted by the Heads of State from seven-member countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Somalia. Ruto commended President Salva Kiir for successfully steering the EAC community for one year.
"Congratulations your excellency; you made all of us proud," Ruto said.
"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 promised to work diligently alongside all the regional leaders to advance the mission and vision of the community.
He further underscored Kenya's preparedness to advance the region's integration agenda even as he called for the need to establish a political confederation within East Africa.
While acknowledging the progress made by the member countries in enhancing bilateral relations, the Head of State called for concerted efforts to address the prevailing challenges.
He further promised to prioritise improving the livelihoods of those within the region, prompting interregional trade and driving investment to the EAC economies.
