The Heads of State of the East African Community (EAC) are set to convene for the 25th Ordinary Summit on 7th March 2026 in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania.
Held under the theme “Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens,” the Summit strengthens EAC States’ commitment to accelerating regional integration and advancing sustainable development across the bloc.
As the highest decision-making organ of the Community, the Summit will bring together leaders from the eight EAC Partner States to deliberate on key issues shaping the future of the region. Discussions will focus on the implementation of regional programmes, institutional reforms, and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening economic integration and improving the welfare of East African citizens.
Launch of EAC Customs Bond
A major highlight of the Summit will be the official launch of the EAC Customs Bond, a single regional customs guarantee designed to replace the current requirement for multiple national bonds along transit corridors.
Under the new system, traders and clearing agents will secure one bond recognised across all Partner States, eliminating the need for separate guarantees in each country of transit. The framework links customs administrations, insurers, and financial institutions under a unified regional arrangement, reducing compliance costs, cutting border delays, safeguarding government revenue, and facilitating faster and more secure movement of goods across the Community.
7th EAC Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31)
The Summit will also mark the launch of the 7th EAC Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31), which outlines the Community’s strategic priorities for the next five years. The Strategy builds on gains from the previous development cycle and aligns with EAC Vision 2050, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals, positioning the region for accelerated socioeconomic transformation.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva emphasized the significance of the Summit as a platform for collective leadership and decisive regional action.
“The Summit of the EAC Heads of State remains the most important platform for guiding the Community’s integration agenda. Convening in Arusha provides an opportunity for our leaders to take strategic decisions that strengthen cooperation, promote trade, and advance shared prosperity for the people of East Africa,” she said.
She added that the launch of the Customs Bond and the new Development Strategy reflects the Community’s shift toward practical, results-oriented solutions that enhance competitiveness and economic resilience.
Key Agenda Items
The Summit will also consider:
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The Report of the Council to the Summit covering 30th November 2024 – 31st December 2025;
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Modalities for implementing the 24th Summit directive on sustainable financing of the EAC Budget, based on a 65% equal contribution and 35% assessed contribution formula;
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The status of integration of Partner States admitted between 2016 and 2024.
In addition, the Heads of State are expected to appoint a new EAC Secretary General, appoint Judges to the East African Court of Justice, renew appointments of Deputy Secretaries General, appoint Commissioners to the EAC Competition Authority, and assent to Bills passed by the East African Legislative Assembly.
The outcomes of the Summit are anticipated to reinforce policy alignment among Partner States and accelerate the implementation of key regional programmes aimed at fostering inclusive growth and deeper economic integration.
The Summit will be preceded by an Extraordinary Meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers from 2nd to 5th March 2026 at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha.
