Somalia has joined the East African Community (EAC) in a move intended to boost economic growth in the country following three decades of war.

Somalia’s integration into the EAC is a huge step for the Horn of Africa nation, but it did not come easy. Months of lobbying to join the regional bloc were met by serious questions and hesitation by some member states.

EAC citizens can move freely within member states, so some fear that it could be easier for al-Shabab fighters to move around the region. To be admitted into the EAC, new countries are supposed to show that they adhere to the principles of good governance, democracy, the rule of law, human rights and social justice.

Last year, Somalia was ranked the most corrupt country in the world by Transparency International. So some argued that Somalia was not ready to join the bloc. Negotiations between the EAC and Somalia began in August hosted by the Kenyan government.