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—Somalia Launches East African Passport Following EAC Membership The Prime Minister of Somalia announced that the country has officially begun issuing the East African passport to its citizens,
marking a significant milestone following Somalia’s admission into the East African Community (EAC).
The new passport will be issued to Somali citizens, including students, businesspeople, workers, and families,
opening broader access to regional and international travel opportunities.
According to the Prime Minister, joining the East African Community represents a symbol of belonging and regional integration.
The move is expected to ease cross-border travel, expand shared economic opportunities,
and enhance the global standing of the Somali passport.
Somali Passport Ranking Improves GloballyOfficials noted that Somalia’s passport ranking has improved significantly in recent years.
In 2021, the Somali passport ranked 111th globally. It has now risen to 96th place — an increase of 15 positions.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Somali citizens now hold “not just a passport, but a document that opens doors, builds connections,
and demonstrates that Somalia has returned to the global stage.”
Authorities also highlighted growing international confidence in the Somali passport,
attributing the progress to improved governance and expanding diplomatic engagement.
Visa-Free Access ExpandsCurrently, Somali citizens can travel to nearly 40 countries either visa-free or by obtaining a visa on arrival.
This development is expected to benefit students, entrepreneurs, and families seeking greater mobility.
Several international partners have also extended visa-free access to holders of Somali diplomatic passports,
with officials expressing optimism that similar privileges could expand to ordinary passport holders in the future.
Economic and Strategic ImportanceThe East African passport is expected to strengthen regional trade, economic cooperation,
and security collaboration. It will also facilitate movement across member states, encourage educational exchange, and promote cultural integration.
Somalia’s entry into the EAC was formally approved during the 2024 Heads of State Summit of East African nations.
The government further stressed that Somalia joins the bloc as a strategic nation with Africa’s longest coastline,
linking the continent to the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian Ocean.
The country possesses significant blue economy potential, including ports, fisheries,
and maritime trade corridors that could contribute to regional prosperity.
Somalia reaffirmed its strong commitment to active participation in the East African Community,
pledging to contribute to sustainable development, trade growth, job creation, and improved living standards across the region.
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