Arusha, SONNA – Leaders attending the 25th Summit of the East African Community (EAC) have adopted several major decisions aimed at strengthening the Community’s financial sustainability and institutional governance.
The resolutions were announced following deliberations by Heads of State during the annual summit, which focused on enhancing cooperation and improving the operational efficiency of the regional bloc.
Among the key outcomes of the summit was the adoption of a new financing model for the Community. Under the new framework, 50 percent of funding will come from equal contributions by Partner States, while the remaining 50 percent will be based on assessed contributions, reflecting each country’s capacity.
The new financing arrangement will take effect on 1 July 2026, marking a significant shift toward a more balanced and sustainable funding structure for the regional organization.
The summit also decided that members of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) serving in the Community will be paid by their respective National Assemblies.
This arrangement will come into effect from December 2027, after the conclusion of the tenure of the current Assembly.
In recognition of economic pressures facing some member states, the summit agreed to waive 50 percent of all outstanding arrears owed by Partner States as a one-off measure.
However, the decision is conditional on the remaining 50 percent being settled within two years from 7 March 2026.
Leaders further resolved that meetings of all organs and institutions of the Community will require a quorum of two-thirds of all Partner States to conduct official business.
The decisions taken at the summit aim to strengthen governance mechanisms, improve financial discipline, and enhance the effectiveness of the East African Community as it advances regional integration.
