Arusha. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have finalised the framework for the 2026 Secretary General (SG) Convening during a Technical Working Group session in Arusha. The preparatory meeting set the agenda for the upcoming regional dialogue, focusing on the East African Community (EAC) leadership transition and integration strategies.
The session, held at the EAC Headquarters in a hybrid format, brought together civil society networks, private sector representatives, and regional stakeholders. Participants structured the content for the April 22–23 convening, under the theme: “A Community Reborn: Implications of the 2026 Heads of State Summit Decisions to the Future of the EAC.”
The assembly will oversee the transition at the EAC Secretariat, marking the end of outgoing Secretary General Ambassador Veronica Mueni Nduva’s term and installing her successor, Ambassador Stephen Patrick Mbundi. The handover is seen as an opportunity to promote inclusive dialogue, stronger coordination, and measurable progress on regional commitments.
East Africa Law Society (EALS) representative Achilleus Rwelamira said the platform aims to move beyond ceremonial handovers, honouring the outgoing SG while equipping the incoming leadership with clear, citizen-driven priorities.
EACSOF CEO Lilian Alex stressed that civil society must guide the transition narrative, noting that regional policies succeed only when they reflect local realities and deliver improvements for citizens.
The Technical Working Group prioritised analysing the 25th Ordinary Summit directives, reviewing integration achievements, and identifying gaps in implementation. The agenda also includes reviewing Amb. Nduva’s operational legacy and formulating recommendations for Amb Mbundi.
The SG Convening brings together the EAC Secretariat, Partner States, civil society, private sector, academia, and development partners. Organisers aim to produce actionable resolutions aligned with state priorities and citizen needs, setting the EAC on a path of accountability, shared priorities, and active citizen participation.
