Somali entrepreneurs are increasingly looking toward the East African Community (EAC) as a gateway to regional growth, two years after Somalia officially joined the bloc. With a market of over 300 million people, Somalia now has the chance to expand trade, attract investment and integrate its products and services across East Africa.
The 2025 EAC Conference in Mogadishu highlighted the sectors with the most promise, including agriculture, trade and cross-border business collaboration. Business leaders, policymakers and economists convened to explore strategies for Somali companies to leverage regional demand, scale operations and tap into new opportunities that were previously inaccessible. For Somali farmers, manufacturers and service providers, the EAC market represents a pathway to increased revenue, stronger partnerships and sustainable economic growth across the region.
The conference brought together over 350 participants, including entrepreneurs, government officials, regional partners and investors. It served as a platform to discuss practical steps for integrating Somali businesses into the EAC economy, sharing strategies for export development, regional partnerships and market expansion. The event also provided an opportunity for Somali entrepreneurs to showcase local products and innovations to potential buyers and partners from across East Africa.
Businessman Abdirahman Shurie expressed optimism about the benefits Somali businesses can gain from regional integration. “As farmers and pastoralists, we can benefit from showcasing our produce to East Africa, opening our export and import markets significantly. This will improve trade opportunities,” he said. His statement reflects the broader enthusiasm among Somali entrepreneurs, who are eager to leverage new market access to grow their operations and contribute to national economic development.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar Balcad, highlighted the wide range of opportunities available for Somali businesses within the regional market. “The market of 300 million people is now open to Somalia, offering opportunities for trade, employment and education. Somali products can reach this market, benefiting from new avenues for growth and regional cooperation,” he said. Balcad emphasized that government support and policy alignment are key to helping Somali companies take full advantage of the EAC’s economic potential.
Economists attending the conference also expressed positive expectations for Somalia’s economic growth. Shafi’i Sharif noted that integrating Somali businesses into the EAC market could significantly boost income levels, with daily earnings potentially rising from $2 to $5 or more. This increase would have a direct impact on national growth, job creation and the overall standard of living for citizens. The analysis underlined that regional integration is not only a trade opportunity but also a strategic lever for economic development across multiple sectors.
Since officially joining the EAC in late 2023, Somalia has made progress in aligning its policies, standards and regulations with the regional framework. This alignment allows Somali businesses to participate more effectively in cross-border trade, access regional supply chains and attract investors interested in East Africa’s growing market. Membership also provides Somali entrepreneurs with a voice in regional policy discussions, creating opportunities to influence decisions that impact trade, investment and economic cooperation.
Agriculture emerged as one of the most promising sectors during the conference discussions. With East Africa’s growing population and demand for food, Somali farmers and pastoralists have the potential to expand exports, introduce new crops and livestock products, and participate in regional agribusiness networks. Trade in goods such as grains, livestock, textiles and processed foods is expected to grow, providing income opportunities for rural communities and strengthening Somalia’s contribution to regional food security.
Beyond agriculture, Somali entrepreneurs also see potential in technology, services and small- and medium-sized enterprises. Access to regional capital, partnerships and knowledge networks can help businesses innovate, and compete more effectively in the EAC market. Many participants highlighted the importance of mentorship and capacity-building programs to ensure entrepreneurs are equipped to meet the challenges of cross-border trade and business expansion.
The 2025 EAC Conference demonstrated that Somalia’s integration into the regional market is not only a political milestone but also a tangible economic opportunity. Entrepreneurs, policymakers and economists agreed that leveraging the 300-million-strong market could transform Somalia’s business landscape, improve livelihoods and enhance the country’s competitiveness within East Africa. By actively participating in the regional economy, Somali businesses can unlock new revenue streams, create jobs and contribute to sustainable development.
