The East African Community (EAC) has reaffirmed its recognition of the Federal Republic of Somalia as a single, sovereign state.

In a statement released by the EAC Secretariat in Arusha on Sunday, December 28, 2025, the regional bloc aligned itself with the African Union’s stance on Somalia, emphasising adherence to established regional and international legal frameworks concerning state sovereignty.

“The East African Community (EAC) recognises the Federal Republic of Somalia as a single sovereign state under the authority of the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The East African Community (EAC) notes and aligns with the position expressed by the African Union as reflected in the Constitutive Act of the African Union and relevant decisions concerning the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the statement reads in part.

Somalia’s borders

The EAC highlighted that Somalia’s borders, inherited at independence, must be respected, and all stakeholders are called upon to act in accordance with international law.

The statement stresses that any actions undermining Somalia’s unity or territorial integrity are unacceptable.

“In accordance with the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, the EAC recognises the Federal Republic of Somalia with its borders inherited at independence. The EAC calls for respect for the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia and urges all stakeholders to act within established regional and international legal frameworks relating to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states,” the statement read.

Israel recognises Somaliland

The EAC statement comes days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel officially recognises the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, marking the first time any country has formally granted such recognition to the breakaway region.

In a statement posted on X dated December 26, 2025, Netanyahu detailed the development: “I announced today the official recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. Together with Foreign Minister Sa’ar and the President of the Republic of Somaliland, we signed a joint and mutual declaration. This declaration is in the spirit of the Abraham Accords, signed at the initiative of President Trump.”

AUC rejects recognition of Somaliland

The African Union Commission has firmly rejected any recognition of Somaliland as an independent entity, reaffirming the continental body’s unwavering commitment to Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity.

In a statement issued on Friday, December 26, 2025, AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over recent developments relating to Somaliland and reiterated the AU’s longstanding position on the matter.

“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission rejects any recognition of Somaliland and reaffirms the African Union’s unwavering commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Somalia,” the statement read.