The leaders of the East African Community (EAC) member states will gather in Arusha this Saturday for the 24th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State, marking 25 years since the bloc’s re-establishment. However, the meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions, particularly between Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These strained relations, primarily fueled by political hostilities, have escalated, making this summit a critical moment for the region.
Rwanda’s relations with its neighbors, especially Burundi and the DRC, have soured in recent years. Presidents Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi and Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC have openly criticized Rwanda, with both entertaining a dangerous and reckless notion of overthrowing or assassinating President Paul Kagame. This rhetoric has stoked ethnic violence, hate speech and anti-Tutsi sentiment across the region, exacerbating instability, particularly in eastern DRC, which remains a hotspot for militia activity. The summit presents a rare opportunity for these leaders to confront their differences and work toward a resolution, as tensions continue to impact regional security and relations.
While no president has publicly confirmed their attendance or absence, hopes are high that all leaders will be present for this pivotal meeting. Given the high stakes, particularly for Rwanda, no leader can afford to miss what may prove to be a defining moment for the region.
In addition to addressing these political tensions, the summit will focus on regional issues, including trade and economic integration, peace and security, infrastructure development, and climate change adaptation. Leaders will discuss strengthening the EAC Common Market, resolving trade barriers, and promoting economic cooperation, as well as addressing the ongoing instability in eastern DRC and the wider region. There will also be an emphasis on boosting connectivity and mitigating climate change’s effects.
Since its re-establishment in 1999, the EAC has grown from its founding members—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—to include Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the DRC. However, the political tensions between Rwanda and its neighbors have overshadowed the bloc’s progress, raising questions about its future stability.
The summit will bring together Presidents Kagame of Rwanda, William Ruto of Kenya, Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Ndayishimiye of Burundi, Tshisekedi of the DRC, and Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan. Their ability to engage in meaningful dialogue and prioritize regional interests over national or personal agendas will be crucial for the future of the EAC.
As the summit approaches, all eyes will be on Arusha, with the hope that the leaders will resolve their differences and work toward a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous East Africa.
