EAC bloc accepts Somalia

Somalia has joined the East African Community (EAC) in a move intended to boost economic growth in the country following three decades of war. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said joining the region al trade bloc was a ‘beacon of hope’ for Somalia. BBC News reports that the country has been wracked by conflict since 1991 and many parts of the country are controlled by jihadist group al-Shabab. The decision to admit Somalia was made after a meeting of heads of member states in Arusha, Tanzania. Months of lobbying to join the regional bloc were met by serious questions and hesitation by some member states. EAC citizens can move freely within member states, so some fear that it could be easier for al-Shabab fighters to move around the region. Last year, Somalia was ranked the most corrupt country in the world by Transparency International.