Arusha, Tanzania — The East African Community (EAC) has entered a new phase of leadership following the official handover of office from outgoing Secretary General Veronica M. Nduva to Ambassador Stephen P. Mbundi.
The ceremony, held at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, brought together senior officials from EAC organs and institutions, alongside development partners and regional stakeholders, to witness the transition.
Ambassador Mbundi assumes office as the 8th Secretary General of the bloc following his appointment by the 25th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State. He begins a five-year non-renewable term effective April 25, 2026.
Uganda’s Minister of State for EAC Affairs, James Magode Ikuya, officiated as the chief guest at the event, representing Vice President Jessica Alupo.
In farewell remarks, officials and staff paid tribute to Nduva’s 22-month tenure, highlighting her role in advancing regional integration, strengthening institutional frameworks, and fostering closer cooperation among partner states.
“Her stewardship has left a solid foundation for the continued growth of the Community,” one official noted during the ceremony.
The incoming Secretary General, Amb. Mbundi takes over at a time when the EAC is seeking to deepen economic integration, enhance cross-border trade, and strengthen political cooperation among its member states.
Regional leaders expressed optimism about his leadership, describing the transition as a moment of continuity and renewed commitment to the bloc’s vision of a prosperous, competitive, secure, and politically united East Africa.
The handover ceremony underscored the EAC’s emphasis on institutional stability and orderly transitions, as the bloc continues to pursue its integration agenda amid evolving regional and global dynamics.