Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud officially opened the East African Business Cooperation Summit in Mogadishu on October 7, 2025. This is the second time the Somali capital has hosted the event, which focuses on advancing regional integration in economic, political, and social sectors. The summit comes as Somalia strengthens its involvement in the East African Community (EAC) after officially joining the bloc.
In his address, President Mohamud highlighted Mogadishu’s historical role in trade and its symbolic importance in hosting the summit. He stated that Somalia’s participation reflects renewed trust and its growing leadership within the region. The President also called on intellectuals, business leaders, and policymakers to contribute research-based insights that can help drive economic growth, investment, and political cooperation.
The summit brought together regional and international stakeholders to discuss strategies for accelerating East Africa’s integration and enhancing the EAC’s role in Africa’s broader development. The event marks a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to position itself as an active and influential member of the East African region.