Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across the East African Community (EAC) Partner States have reaffirmed their strong commitment in amplifying the voices of citizens including special groups, in a renewed drive to strengthen participation in the regional integration process. This was the clear message from a series of national consultations aimed at deepening collaboration between civil society, governments and regional institutions.
Held between June and November 2025 across the 8 EAC Partner States, the consultations built on the momentum of the 2024 dialogue series, which revitalised national chapters and expanded membership base. They focused on identifying emerging governance, trade, and civic space challenges requiring regional attention and capturing national priorities to guide deliberations for the forthcoming 8th EAC Secretary General’s Forum.
The sessions organized by the East African Civil Society Organization Forum (EACSOF) with financial support from GIZ LIFTED – a project co-funded by the European Union (EU), produced actionable insights designed to reinforce EACSOF’s role as a bridge between citizens and the regional integration agenda.
Speaking during the forum, Ms. Lilian Allex, Executive Director of EACSOF, observed that the consultations were already strengthening citizen engagement across the region. She noted that in the last 18 months, three rounds of engagements with members in every Partner State have been conducted which not only ensured that members were involved but also enabled them to take the economic integration agenda to a wider citizenry.
“The national consultations continue to gain momentum as more CSO networks highlight both public concerns and overarching regional issues. We remain grateful to our supporters and national chapters in every Partner State, and I would like to remind every member present today that your involvement is essential in shaping a more inclusive EAC.” She added.
In his remark, Mr. David Sigano, the Chair of the EAC Regional Dialogue Committee and Executive Director of the East African Law Society which represents more than forty thousand legal professionals across the Partner States commended the national consultations as a vital pillar of citizen participation in regional integration. He expressed gratitude to EACSOF and the LIFTED Project for supporting the engagement sessions, noting that they have significantly widened public access to information.
“These platforms give ordinary citizens direct access not only to knowledge about EAC institutions, but also to the legal and policy instruments that bind these structures together and ensure they deliver tangible benefits to the people of the EAC Partner States.” Mr. Sigano re-emphasised.
Representing Somalia chapter, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman, Executive Director of the Somali Non-State Actors (SONSA), observed that the consultations were both timely and strategic, as they enable Somali Civil Society to engage constructively with the Government in advancing the EAC regional integration agenda particularly now that the Federal Republic of Somalia is a relatively new member of the Community.
“These dialogues give Somalia a vital platform to align national priorities with regional commitments, ensuring that our integration into the EAC is meaningful, inclusive, and forward-looking. The discussions are relevant as we work to address key integration-related challenges, including strengthening institutional capacity, improving cross-border trade systems, harmonising customs and regulatory frameworks, ensuring freedom of movement, and enhancing security cooperation across the region.” He added.
CSOs play a crucial role in the EAC economic integration process by advocating for policies that promote social justice, economic development, and good governance. They serve as a bridge between the government and the citizens, ensuring that the voices of the marginalized and vulnerable groups are heard.