Rwanda is an official member of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) after it had suspended its participation in the regional bloc to pursue its reconstruction process.
Eight years after the suspension, Rwanda has signed its return during the 16th session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the organization held Monday in the Chadian capital.
Rwanda, a founding member of ECCAS, had suspended its participation in the regional institution in 2007.
On 4 April 2013, the Government had made a request for the readmission of Rwanda within ECCAS.
On Monday, in the Chadian capital, the conference of Heads of State and Government of ECCAS has reviewed and approved this request.
IGIHE has learnt that a reintegration agreement was jointly signed by Sheikh Musa Fazil Harerimana, Minister of Internal Security of Rwanda and Ambassador Ahmad Allam-mi, Secretary General of ECCAS.
“Our country is ready to contribute to the vision and mission of the Community. Rwanda is also committed to fulfill all its obligations under the Libreville Treaty establishing ECCAS, “said Mr. Musa Fazil Harerimana.
“ECCAS welcomes the position taken by Rwanda, which is an important pillar that can play a greater role in current efforts to bring peace, security and stability in the Great Lakes Region”, said Chadian President Deby, host of the summit.
ECCAS was established in 1983 with a mission to lead the process of cooperation and integration in Central Africa.
In 1999, at the summit in Malabo (Equatorial Guinea), four objectives were assigned: the development of culture and human integration, that of analytical ability, action, and initiation of entrepreneurial action, communication and collective bargaining.
Later it was added to these objectives the development of peace, security and stability and physical, economic and monetary integration.
ECCAS is made of Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, and Sao Tome and Principe.
With the reinstatement of Rwanda, it now has eleven members.
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