Somalia officially approved to print EAC passport

Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and Permanent Representative to the East African Community (EAC), Ambassador Ilyaas Ali Hassan, has formally handed over the official decision authorizing the Federal Government of Somalia to print the EAC passport and adopt its approved design features.

The decision was presented to Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, General Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail “Fartaag,” and the Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, Mustafa Sheikh Ahmed Dhuxulow.

The development comes a day after the two sides signed the relevant agreement, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for Somalia. The approval enables the country to issue the standardized EAC biometric passport in line with regional specifications.

Officials described the move as a major step forward in strengthening Somalia’s regional integration within the East African Community framework. It is also expected to facilitate easier movement of Somali citizens across EAC member states and enhance cooperation in immigration and border management.

The decision underscores Somalia’s continued commitment to regional cooperation and deeper economic and political integration within the bloc.