Tanzania welcomes the appointment of Amb Mbundi as the new EAC SG

Arusha. The government has welcomed the appointment of Amb Stephen Patrick Mbundi as the new Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC), describing the move as a boost to regional integration efforts.

In a press statement issued following the selection of Amb Mbundi on March 7, 2026, by the EAC Summit, the ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation said the appointment reflects confidence in Tanzania’s diplomatic leadership within the Community.

The government noted that Amb Mbundi is a seasoned Tanzanian diplomat and senior public official with more than 28 years of professional experience in government service and international relations.

Before assuming the new role, Amb Mbundi served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

In that capacity, he oversaw matters related to the EAC and played a central role in shaping Tanzania’s engagement with regional institutions.

According to the statement, he contributed significantly to policy coordination and administrative leadership in Tanzania’s foreign relations.

His work focused particularly on advancing regional integration and strengthening cooperation among EAC partner states.

The ministry added that Amb Mbundi frequently represented Tanzania in high-level regional and international meetings.

These engagements involved negotiations and consultations aimed at deepening collaboration among member states.

Over the years, he has worked closely with various organs and institutions of the EAC, as well as development partners and private sector organisations supporting the regional integration agenda.

His responsibilities have also included engaging with counterparts from partner states to address challenges affecting the free movement of goods, services and people across the region.

Officials said Amb Mbundi brings extensive institutional knowledge and a long-standing commitment to the objectives of the EAC.

His experience is expected to support the Community’s efforts to strengthen economic cooperation and regional development.

The ministry further expressed confidence that his leadership will inject renewed momentum into the EAC integration process.

The EAC is a regional bloc that seeks to promote economic, political and social cooperation among its member states.

Key pillars of integration include the Customs Union, the Common Market and the long-term goal of a political federation.

Amb Mbundi now assumes leadership of the EAC Secretariat at a time when the Community continues to pursue deeper regional integration and expanded trade among partner states.