Somalia officially launches the East African Community (EAC) passport, enhancing regional integration.

The Federal Government of Somalia has officially begun issuing the East African Community (EAC) passport, a landmark step aimed at strengthening regional integration and enhancing the international standing of the Somali passport. The launch was hailed by government officials as a historic milestone, opening new opportunities for travel, trade, and education across the East African region.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre stated that the new passport marks a significant step in Somalia’s ongoing recovery and reflects the country’s renewed commitment to playing an active and constructive role within the region. “This passport will facilitate easier movement for Somali citizens and create shared opportunities in commerce, education, and social integration,” the Prime Minister said in a Facebook post.

According to the Prime Minister, the Somali passport, which ranked 111th globally in 2021, has now climbed to 96th position, an improvement of 15 places. This progress allows Somali citizens to travel to nearly 40 countries either visa-free or with a visa on arrival. He highlighted that several countries have already approved visa-free access for holders of the Somali diplomatic passport, and the government anticipates expanding these benefits to all citizens in the near future.

“The issuance of the EAC passport is more than a travel document—it is a symbol of Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation, economic growth, and education opportunities,” Xamse Cabdi Barre said. He emphasized Somalia’s strategic geographic position, with the continent’s longest coastline and access to the Indian Ocean, offering opportunities in trade, fisheries, and maritime resources that can be leveraged in partnership with neighboring countries.

The Somali government also underlined its commitment to sustainable development, regional trade, and job creation as core priorities tied to the introduction of the EAC passport. By simplifying cross-border travel, the government aims to facilitate business activities, enhance educational exchanges, and support socio-economic integration for Somali citizens throughout East Africa.

Officials stressed that Somalia is not simply joining international bodies for symbolic reasons. Instead, the country intends to actively contribute to the region’s development, sharing its resources and strategic advantages while fostering stability, prosperity, and opportunity for its citizens.

The EAC passport initiative aligns with broader regional efforts to strengthen economic ties, facilitate labor mobility, and promote collaboration among member states, reflecting Somalia’s vision of a more connected and prosperous East Africa.

With this historic launch, Somali citizens now have a passport that not only enables smoother travel but also signals Somalia’s renewed role as a proactive and responsible member of the East African community.