East African Community accelerates monetary union and capital markets integration

The East African Community (EAC) is accelerating efforts toward regional economic integration and the establishment of the East African Monetary Union (EAMU), targeting a single currency by 2031.

To support this goal, the EAC has reactivated the Capital Markets Sub-Committee of the Capital Markets, Insurance and Pensions Committee. This move, finalized during meetings in Arusha, Tanzania, aims to improve coordination between securities exchanges, regulatory authorities, and central securities depositories across partner states. This marks the first formal engagement of the sub-committee since 2019.

Simultaneously, regional authorities are reviewing measures to strengthen public finance management and monetary policy coordination. Discussions held in September 2026 focused on improving budget credibility, aligning tax policies, and establishing arrangements for joint economic assessment. These efforts include exploring the possibility of a joint East African Central Bank to support the EAMU roadmap and ensure macroeconomic stability amidst global economic challenges.