In a groundbreaking moment for the East African Community (EAC), Veronica Mueni Nduva was sworn in as the first female Secretary General during the 23rd Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the EAC Heads of State on June 8, 2024.
The virtual ceremony marked a significant milestone, reflecting the EAC’s commitment to progress, gender equality, and regional cooperation. Nduva assumed her new role at the EAC headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, following her nomination by Kenyan President William Ruto. In her inaugural address, the newly appointed Secretary General outlined a visionary agenda, emphasizing key priorities that will shape the region’s future. Foremost, she commits to deepening regional integration as she recognises that a secure East Africa is essential for lasting prosperity. She notes that strengthening peace and security will lay the foundation for achieving this overarching goal.
Moreover, Nduva aims to empower women and youth, acknowledging their role in driving the region’s growth. By prioritizing social development, she seeks to create opportunities and improve livelihoods across the EAC. Infrastructure development emerged as a critical agenda item, with Nduva highlighting the importance of investments in transportation, energy, and digital connectivity. Such advancements will enhance economic development and facilitate trade within the EAC, fostering greater regional integration. Additionally, the new Secretary General emphasizes the collective responsibility of addressing climate change, advocating for the promotion of green energy, sustainable agriculture, conservation efforts, and resource mobilization to build a climate-resilient future for East Africa.
During the meeting, regional leaders expressed optimism and support for the EAC’s progress. South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit praised the Community’s achievements, noting that intra-regional trade currently stands at 15% and expressing confidence in further growth, especially after Somalia’s recent admission. President Kiir also urged the establishment of the East African Monetary Institute to facilitate a single currency. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni emphasized the need to eliminate Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) to unlock the region’s trade potential. Meanwhile, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan encouraged Nduva to enhance the EAC’s visibility and implement effective climate change strategies.
Somali President Hassan Sheik Mohamud announced Somalia’s active participation by sending a Member of Parliament and Judges to the East African Legislative Assembly. Veronica’s appointment as the first female Secretary General reflects the EAC’s commitment to progress and gender equality.
