Ethiopia stands on the cusp of joining the East Africa Community (EAC), a pivotal move set to elevate the bloc's population to 420 million and increase the member states count to nine. The revelation came by way of Peninah Malonza, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of East African Community. Securing the near-final stages of discussion with the EAC Summit heads, Ethiopia's induction is forthcoming, Ms. Malonza confirmed.

Ethiopia's anticipated entry underscores the EAC's dedication to enhancing regional unity and economic harmony, with plans to streamline trade within an expanded single customs territory. This stride in unity follows on the heels of Somalia's recent integration into the EAC - a unanimous assent mirrored at the 23rd ordinary summit of EAC leaders in Arusha, Tanzania. With Ethiopia's membership on the horizon, the EAC is diligently unifying policy frameworks and laying the groundwork for a shared regional currency, boldly targeting completion by year-end—a goal outlined by the EAC Monetary Union Protocol. The EAC, a comprehensive intergovernmental alliance with eight existing partners, aims to drive economic, socio-political alignment for mutual prosperity. Consisting of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania, the organisation operates from its Arusha, Tanzania headquarters to promote harmony and sustainable growth in East Africa. Ethiopia's anticipated accession marks a significant leap in strengthening East African unity and collaborative advancement. It's a testament to the bloc's pursuit of shared growth and transnational partnership, opening channels of increased cooperation and reciprocal advantage among the nations of East Africa. From its origins with three nations, the EAC has continually embraced expansion, reflecting a dynamic and broadening alliance.