News

Text: Isabelle Zundel

Since 2008, the University of Bayreuth (formerly Prof. Dr. Ulrike Wanitzek) has been dedicated to promoting regional integration within the East African Community (EAC) through TGCL and in June 2024 this efforts and work have shown great results. Some years ago, the Chair of African Legal Studies established a teaching, research and advocacy collaboration in Somalia. With Somalia now joining the EAC as a new partner state, we have the unique opportunity to unite these endeavours. Our first step in this direction was co-organising the East African Community Conference (EACON 2024) and it was a great success.

After months of great anticipation and preparation the East African Community Conference (EACON) 2024 - as the most significant international event on regional integration held in recent years – took place. It was held on 24 and 25 June 2024 in Mogadishu (Somalia), focusing on regional integration within the East African Community (EAC). The conference gathered more than 200 participants and was co-organised by GIZ, the Chair of African Legal Studies and the Cluster of Excellence Africa Multiple in cooperation with the TGCL and SIMAD University.

The Regional Integration Focus was a special highlight focusing on the importance of integrating Somalia into the EAC, exploring its potential. EACON 2024 was marked by a series of engaging panel discussions, keynote speeches such as about ‘Migration in East Africa: A Multifaceted View’ by Dr. Petro Protas, and paper presentations, contributing to its success in fostering regional cooperation.

Whether online or in presence – the event was a great success!

"With EACON 2024, we have reached a significant milestone in our collaboration with SIMAD University in Somalia. Over the 10-month preparation period, we not only developed personal friendships but also learned from each other and grew together. EACON has also highlighted Somalia's significant progress toward regional integration, presenting a crucial opportunity we must seize. The roadmap adopted at the end of June 2024 for implementing EAC commitments by Somalia is a key step in strengthening the entire EAC. Just as in the EU, in East Africa, we are only as strong as our weakest member. Our Chair, the Cluster of Excellence Africa Multiple and the University of Bayreuth have demonstrated that we can successfully undertake large projects in Somalia. I am proud of this achievement and confident we can build upon it."

(Statement from René Brosius, Member of the Organising Committee and PhD Candidate at the Chair of African Legal Studies)

EACON 2024 was an essential step toward strengthening ties within the East African region. Its successful execution has set a positive inspiring precedent for future cooperations. We are thankful for being part of EACON 2024 with all the great conversations and interactions. We are excited for the next EACON – maybe already in 2025? We can't wait to see what the future holds! Let's unite, innovate, and prosper together!