Introduction
In 2024, Mogadishu proudly hosted the East African Community Conference (EACON) for the first time — and the impact was undeniable. With over 300 delegates from across the region, EACON 2024 laid the foundation for stronger policy harmonization, digital infrastructure development, and cross-border collaboration. Highlights included a landmark MoU between Somali universities and the Inter-University Council for East Africa, the launch of a 1,000-scholarship initiative, and bold commitments to strengthen trade, education, and technology partnerships.
Building on that momentum, EACON 2025 is set to return to Mogadishu from October 7–8, 2025, with even greater ambition. As Somalia steps into its full role as an East African Community (EAC) member state, this year’s conference presents a historic opportunity to shift from dialogue to implementation. With over 350 delegates expected, the conference aims to unlock real solutions that will accelerate integration, innovation, and sustainable economic development across East Africa.
Conference Theme:
“From Integration to Implementation: Advancing Regional Growth Through Innovation and Cooperation”
This year’s theme captures a clear and urgent message: the East African Community must now convert commitments into results. While political agreements and diplomatic milestones have shaped the past, the future depends on bold implementation, regional investment, and technological adoption that benefits every citizen across the EAC.
EACON 2025 will prioritize practical, scalable solutions for pressing challenges—whether it’s enhancing food security through smart agriculture, expanding digital finance for the unbanked, or opening new trade corridors across borders. It’s about building resilient systems, not just drafting policies.
Thematic Areas:
The conference will explore four high-impact thematic areas:
- Smart Agriculture & Climate Resilience
With agriculture contributing over 75% of Somalia’s GDP, this theme addresses how to improve productivity and food security using modern tools. Sessions will highlight the role of AI, data analytics, climate-resilient crops, and sustainable land managementEACON 2025: Advancing Regional Growth Through Innovation and Cooperation, aiming to reduce hunger and environmental vulnerability. - Digital Payments & Financial Inclusion
East Africa is home to some of the world’s most dynamic mobile money ecosystems. EACON 2025 will explore how to harmonize cross-border payment systems, reduce transaction costs, and foster a secure, inclusive digital finance landscape through regulatory alignment and innovation. - Trade Facilitation & Economic Integration
Removing trade bottlenecks is essential. This track will dive into eliminating non-tariff barriers (NTBs), improving customs efficiency, and expanding regional infrastructure such as roads, ports, and digital corridors to foster smooth commerce and economic integration. - Investment & Private Sector Growth
From fintech startups to agribusiness, this theme will connect investors with emerging ventures across East Africa. Sessions will highlight public-private partnerships (PPPs), investor matchmaking, and high-growth opportunities in infrastructure, manufacturing, and green tech.
EACON 2025 will bring together a dynamic mix of stakeholders from across East Africa and beyond. Attendees will include Heads of State, government ministers, and senior policymakers driving regional integration and economic reform. The private sector will be well-represented by CEOs, entrepreneurs, and startups in fintech, agritech, and logistics, alongside investors such as venture capitalists and development finance institutions.
Conclusion
EACON 2025 is more than a conference — it is a call to action. As East Africa enters a new era of economic integration and shared development, this event will provide a unique opportunity to align policies, scale innovation, and build cross-border partnerships that deliver real change. The focus is no longer just on agreements, but on implementation, impact, and inclusion.
By convening regional leaders, private sector pioneers, policy experts, and investors, EACON 2025 will serve as a launchpad for the next generation of East African collaboration. Whether you’re an entrepreneur with a breakthrough idea, a policymaker driving reform, or an investor seeking high-impact opportunities — EACON 2025 is where you need to be.
Mark your calendar for October 7–8, 2025, and be part of the movement that will shape the future of East Africa.
