Somalia’s Entry into the EAC: A New Economic Opportunity

Somalia’s Entry into the EAC: A New Economic Opportunity

Somalia’s recent admission into the East African Community (EAC) is more than a diplomatic move – it is a powerful economic opportunity. By joining a market of over 300 million people, Somalia is stepping into one of Africa’s largest trading blocs, opening doors for trade, jobs, and investment.

Youth make up over 70% of Somalia’s population, yet unemployment stands at around 67%, one of the highest in the world. With proper education, job creation, and regional labor mobility, Somali youth could play a transformative role in technology, entrepreneurship, and peace-building.

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) are also vital for Somalia’s economy. In the absence of many formal jobs, SMEs provide income, support families, and drive innovation through mobile money, e-commerce, and agritech. With the right financial support, SMEs could become engines of growth, as seen in the European Union’s successful programs for small businesses.

Somalia’s inclusion in the EAC should therefore be seen as a chance to build a stronger economy – one that empowers youth, supports small businesses, and strengthens regional cooperation for a more prosperous future.