President Salva Kiir Hands Over EAC Chairmanship to President William Ruto at Extraordinary Summit in Tanzania
In a warm and cordial ceremony, H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the outgoing Chairman of the East African Community (EAC), officially handed over the instruments of power to Kenya’s President William Ruto, the incoming chairman, during the 24th Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Tanzania.
During his year-long tenure as chairman, President Kiir made significant strides in promoting peace and stability in the region, most notably by addressing the high tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His proactive approach included a series of diplomatic trips aimed at garnering support for a peaceful resolution to conflicts that have long plagued the Great Lakes region.
One of the cornerstone actions of President Kiir’s chairmanship was his unprecedented decision to deploy South Sudan People’s Defense Forces to the DRC, demonstrating his commitment to fostering regional peace and security. This bold move underlined his dedication to not only South Sudan but also the entire East African Community, as he sacrificed national troops for the broader goal of stability.
Throughout his leadership, President Kiir was celebrated as a symbol of national unity and a champion of peace. His emphasis on soft diplomacy and collaborative efforts extended his influence beyond South Sudan, proving instrumental in episodes of tension and unrest in the region.
As President Ruto embarks on his new role, he inherits a mandate bolstered by Kiir’s achievements, aiming to further the EAC’s mission of integrating member states and enhancing cooperation for sustainable development. The transition was marked by mutual respect and a shared vision for the future of East Africa, setting the stage for continued collaboration among member countries.
As both leaders affirmed their commitment to regional integration and peace, the summit concluded on a hopeful note, with expectations of progress and prosperity under President Ruto’s chairmanship.
