EAC secretaries see notable progress in the region’s social welfare development

ARUSHA: PERMANENT Secretaries from East African Community (EAC) member states responsible for regional integration have convened at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha to deliberate on various regional matters. The meeting forms part of the preparatory process for the 25th Summit of EAC Heads of State, scheduled to take place on 7 March 2026 in Arusha, Tanzania.

The Permanent Secretaries’ meeting is held under the framework of the 59th Extraordinary Meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers. During the session, participants reviewed and discussed agenda items and reports that were earlier presented during the Senior Officials’ meeting held from 2 to 3 March 2026. These agenda items and reports are expected to be forwarded for further discussion during the Council of Ministers meeting scheduled for 5 March 2026, also in Arusha.

Opening the meeting, Dr Caroline W. Karugu, the Principal Secretary in the Office of the President responsible for East African Community Affairs in Kenya and Chairperson of the meeting, said the East African Community has continued to record notable progress in its development agenda while prioritizing the welfare of its citizens. She stated that these achievements have been facilitated by an enabling environment that supports key economic activities, including trade, investment, and the delivery of social services.

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Dr Karugu emphasized that despite the progress achieved under the strong leadership of EAC Heads of State, there is still a need for intensified efforts to develop and implement new strategies aimed at addressing emerging challenges that could hinder the implementation of the Community’s programs and initiatives.

She highlighted that one of the priority areas requiring attention is the development and modernization of transport and communication infrastructure across the region. According to her, strategic investment in such infrastructure will accelerate inclusive economic growth, increase the production of goods and services, and enhance the region’s economic competitiveness.

The Tanzanian delegation to the meeting was led by Ambassador Stephen Mbundi, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, responsible for East African Affairs. He was accompanied by other senior government officials, including Elia Mwandumbya, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance; Aristides Mbwasi, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade; Samwel Maneno, Deputy Attorney General; as well as directors and other senior government officials.