Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across the East African Community (EAC) Partner States have reaffirmed their strong commitment in amplifying the voices of citizens including special groups, in a renewed drive to strengthen participation in the regional integration process. This was the clear message from a series of national consultations aimed at deepening collaboration between civil society, governments and regional institutions.

Held between June and November 2025 across the 8 EAC Partner States, the consultations built on the momentum of the 2024 dialogue series, which revitalised national chapters and expanded membership base. They focused on identifying emerging governance, trade, and civic space challenges requiring regional attention and capturing national priorities to guide deliberations for the forthcoming 8th EAC Secretary General’s Forum.

The sessions organized by the East African Civil Society Organization Forum (EACSOF) with financial support from GIZ LIFTED – a project co-funded by the European Union (EU), produced actionable insights designed to reinforce EACSOF’s role as a bridge between citizens and the regional integration agenda. 

Speaking during the forum, Ms. Lilian Allex, Executive Director of EACSOF, observed that the consultations were already strengthening citizen engagement across the region. She noted that in the last 18 months, three rounds of engagements with members in every Partner State have been conducted which not only ensured that members were involved but also enabled them to take the economic integration agenda to a wider citizenry. 

“The national consultations continue to gain momentum as more CSO networks highlight both public concerns and overarching regional issues. We remain grateful to our supporters and national chapters in every Partner State, and I would like to remind every member present today that your involvement is essential in shaping a more inclusive EAC.” She added.

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In his remark, Mr. David Sigano, the Chair of the EAC Regional Dialogue Committee and Executive Director of the East African Law Society which represents more than forty thousand legal professionals across the Partner States commended the national consultations as a vital pillar of citizen participation in regional integration. He expressed gratitude to EACSOF and the LIFTED Project for supporting the engagement sessions, noting that they have significantly widened public access to information.

“These platforms give ordinary citizens direct access not only to knowledge about EAC institutions, but also to the legal and policy instruments that bind these structures together and ensure they deliver tangible benefits to the people of the EAC Partner States.” Mr. Sigano re-emphasised.

Representing Somalia chapter, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman, Executive Director of the Somali Non-State Actors (SONSA), observed that the consultations were both timely and strategic, as they enable Somali Civil Society to engage constructively with the Government in advancing the EAC regional integration agenda particularly now that the Federal Republic of Somalia is a relatively new member of the Community. 

“These dialogues give Somalia a vital platform to align national priorities with regional commitments, ensuring that our integration into the EAC is meaningful, inclusive, and forward-looking. The discussions are relevant as we work to address key integration-related challenges, including strengthening institutional capacity, improving cross-border trade systems, harmonising customs and regulatory frameworks, ensuring freedom of movement, and enhancing security cooperation across the region.” He added.

CSOs play a crucial role in the EAC economic integration process by advocating for policies that promote social justice, economic development, and good governance. They serve as a bridge between the government and the citizens, ensuring that the voices of the marginalized and vulnerable groups are heard. 


CSOs Renew their Drive to Strengthen Citizen Participation in Regional Integration Agenda (GIZ)

East African Community (EAC) private sector umbrella body - the East African Business Council (EABC) in partnership with GIZ-LIFTED project, successfully concluded building the capacities of service enterprises to effectively participate in regional and continental trade under the frameworks of the EAC Common Markets and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The initiative identified, Profiled and conducted a series of trainings between 2 and 15 October 2025 in Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya, which were attended by over 200 export-ready companies from priority service sectors focused on the application of rules, regulations, and business concepts for export of services. 

The action aims to deepen regional integration by strengthening the capacity of the private sector—particularly women and youth-led service enterprises, to participate competitively in regional and continental trade. Anchored in the EAC Common Market pillar, the program supports Partner States’ commitments to liberalise trade in services and remove barriers that hinder cross-border service delivery across seven high potential sectors including Business, Education, Financial, Communication, Tourism and Travel-related, Transport, and Distribution Services.

Speaking during the training workshop in Uganda, Mr. Simon Kaheru, the EABC Vice Chairman, emphasised the need for elimination of restrictions on services trade and accelerating the adoption of the Mutual Recognition of Academic and Professional Qualifications. Mr.  Kaheru reiterate the need to harmonise regulatory frameworks in the region.

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In his remarks, Mr. Adrian Njau, Acting Executive Director of EABC, highlighted the critical role of services in the regional economies. He noted that services including ICT, tourism, transport, finance, education, and professional services contribute significantly to GDP, job creation and innovation.

Mr. Njau observed that despite all the efforts, SMEs and women- and youth-led businesses still face barriers in accessing service export markets. 

“Fragmented regulations, slow recognition of qualifications, limited financing, and information gaps hinder SMEs competitiveness. This workshop is therefore an investment in people - our entrepreneurs, our youth, and our women.” He added.

Representing the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Ms. Florence Mambea, Outreach Manager, underscored the importance of cultivating a culture of professional service delivery and compliance with export market regulations and standards. She advised companies to remain consistent, professional, and accountable to their brand for sustainable provision of service.

The GIZ-LIFTED is a project co-funded by the European Union (EU) which aims to empower export-ready companies across the region, equipping them with knowledge, strategies, and networks to thrive in regional and global markets. The project plan for match making sessions for linking selected firms with EU counterparts in 2026.


Enhancing Capacities of Service Enterprises for Effective Participation in Regional and Continental Trade (GIZ)

Professionals across the East African Community (EAC) region are keen to take advantage of common market opportunities in EAC Partner States and throughout Africa. Both the East African Community (EAC) and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) aspire to creating a single market for services. One of the approaches to facilitate structured mobility of professionals across borders is through the signature of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), which enable service providers to practice in other Partner States without being subjected to duplicative qualification or licensing processes. 

Policy makers, regulators, representatives of selected professional associations and service providers from the 8 EAC Partner States met in Kampala, Uganda to discuss the status of MRAs in the EAC and other Regional Economic Communities.  Held between 24 and 26 November 2025, the event also presented an opportunity for sharing experiences and challenges in the implementation of existing EAC MRAs, and to build consensus on practical recommendations for EAC approaches to MRA negotiations in the framework of the AfCFTA. The engagement was supported by EU and BMZ and implemented by GIZ through 2 complementary projects-LIFTED and DIGEAT.

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The representive from the EAC Secretariat recalled the 46th meeting of the Sectoral Council for Trade, Industry, Finance & Investment (SCTIFI) which directed Partner States to undertake an analysis to inform EAC positions for the AfCFTA MRA negotiations in service sectors. She observed that EAC had concluded MRAs for Accountancy, Engineering, Architectural & Veterinary professions, however, implementation was still a challenge due to procedural bottlenecks, varying regulatory capacity, lack of awareness and absence of a comprehensive regional oversight mechanism.

“When our economies recognise each other’s standards, certifications, and professional qualifications, we not only streamline trade and mobility—we also build a deeper foundation of confidence among our institutions and our people. Today’s meeting is an important step toward that vision.” She added.

While making her remarks, Ms. Estella Aryada, the Component Lead - Trade in Services, EAC-GIZ Programme, reflected on the partnership between EAC and GIZ spanning over 25 years and noted that while priorities of the collaboration have kept on evolving based on mutually agreed priorities, trade has and remains core of the support.

Ms. Aryada highlighted GIZ support for the effective implementation of MRAs through streamlining the legal and regulatory framework, capacity building, advocacy and awareness creation. This complements support to the engineering MRA which focuses on addressing regulatory barriers to cross border mobility, and the establishment of a digital data exchange mechanism for smooth management of the process. 

“While we are looking at movement of professionals across EAC region, we must be cognisant of the fact that mobility is global. It is important to find ways to position EAC and take advantage of opportunities that are outside the region.” She added.

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On his part, Mr. Bramah Kaleve, Deputy Director, External Trade - Kenya, observed that AfCFTA Protocol covered Trade in Services and defined how services are traded. He noted that EAC developed a combined offer on the Schedule of Commitments under AfCFTA and so far, 22 offers have been adopted by the Council.

Mr. Kaleve highlighted that EAC came up with four regulatory frameworks including in financial and communication services which were under legal scrubbing while negotiations were currently ongoing on the frameworks for Tourism and Transport Services.
 
“In order to approach liberalisation of services, Article 10 of the Trade in Services Protocol requires negotiation of MRAs to enable supply of services. Therefore, I urge this meeting to prioritise on the analytical work on the MRAs.” He added.

Article 11 of the EAC Common Market Protocol mandates Partner States to mutually recognise academic and professional qualifications and to conclude Mutual Recognition Agreements for regulated professions. The EAC has concluded MRAs for Accountancy, Engineering, Architectural and Veterinary professions, while the MRA for Advocates is at an advanced stage. Work on additional professions such as land surveying, continues. At continental level, Article 10 of the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Services requires State Parties to negotiate MRAs and develop supporting guidelines.


Professionals Across EAC take Stock of Measures to Enhance Cross-Border Mobility (GIZ)

From 3 to 7 November 2025, regional experts, civil society representatives (CSOs), and policymakers from across the East African Community (EAC) convened in Nairobi, Kenya, to validate and finalise critical policy documents designed to advance social inclusion, equitable development and youth empowerment across the eight EAC Partner States.

The week-long session represented the final endorsement for the updated frameworks on gender equality, youth empowerment, child rights, social protection, and community development by experts and key stakeholders. It also included the review of the Regional Strategy for Promoting Women in Business for Socio-Economic Development. 

Representing the EAC Secretariat, Dr. Dorcas Omukhulu, Ag. Director of Social Services reflected on the steps that had shaped up the policy review processes including input by the technical committee in Entebbe, Uganda and commended the participants for their contributions in the policy formulation which actively collected and incorporated the youth voices. 

“Your efforts are foundational to shaping a future where young people are recognised as key stakeholders in development, leadership and accountability in regional policy frameworks, and this review has been essential as many existing policies have reached the end of their implementation timelines” Dr. Omukhulu added.

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While making her remarks, Ms Mary Maisory, the Deputy Director at the Ministry of EAC, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), and Regional Integration - Republic of Kenya, observed that the Community’s strength depended on its diversity and its people, and with the youth constituting 65% of the EAC population, and women forming the majority of the workforce and community caregivers, no integration process could succeed without their meaningful participation. 

The Deputy Director emphasised that through these efforts, the region aimed to ensure that its priorities, employment, education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership, are embedded in the frameworks and reaffirmed the region’s collective commitment to gender-responsive, youth-driven, and socially inclusive policies that leave no one behind.

“I commend the civil society organizations, youth networks, and women groups that contributed to the preparatory and consultative processes leading up to today’s meeting. Their insights and recommendations embody the real experiences and aspirations of the communities you represent. I urge the technical experts and policymakers present today to listen attentively, engage constructively, and reflect inclusively on the voices and proposals presented” She added.

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On her part, Ms Joyce Kevin Kimaro, Economic Advisor, CSO Network, EAC-GIZ, underscored the importance of policy review processes in reflecting new and emerging issues such as climate change, digitalisation, and mental health that were previously not covered but now have major implications for youth and children’s wellbeing. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of aligning the frameworks with global and continental agendas, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the African Union Agenda 2063, and the national priorities of EAC Partner States, ensuring coherent and impactful implementation. 

“As EAC-GIZ, our task is not only to facilitate the development of good policies but to ensure they are realistic, inclusive and actionable, as the future of the region depends on how well we translate these commitments into tangible impact for women, youth, and children across East Africa.” added Ms Kimaro.

Following earlier technical consultations in Entebbe, Uganda, the validated documents will now be submitted to the 7th Meeting of the Sectoral Council on the Social Sector later this year.


Key Stakeholders Validate EAC Policy Frameworks on Gender, Youth, and Social Development (GIZ)

The East African Community (EAC) is taking part in the 30th Session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) held from 10 to 21 November 2025 in Belém, Brazil. The conference is taking place in the Amazon region, a global symbol of biodiversity and environmental stewardship. COP30 marks a pivotal moment for advancing climate action and sustainable development. Representing all eight Partner States, the EAC delegation's engagements at COP30 are guided by unified key messages that reflect shared priorities and the community's collective commitment to climate action.

**A Region United for Climate Action**

Ahead of COP30, the EAC, supported by German Development Cooperation, convened regional experts to develop unified key messages. The EAC Deputy Secretary General, Hon. Andrea Ariik Malueth, who is leading the delegation int Belém, noted that “COP30 is a defining moment for East Africa to demonstrate that regional cooperation is key to building climate resilience. Our united position ensures that Partner States speak with one voice at the global stage.”

The regional position aligns Partner States around four key priorities:
- Scaling climate-finance access for Developing Countries and vulnerable communities. 
- Advancing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to enhance resilience and protect livelihoods. 
- Strengthening transboundary water cooperation in basins such as Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika. 
- Accelerating nationally determined contributions implementation through regional coordination and technical support.

Highlighting the EAC’s presence at COP30, is the unveiling of the Preview Edition of the Lake Victoria State of the Basin Report (SoBR 2025), developed by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) with support from GIZ. The report shares comprehensive insights on ecological health, socio-economic dynamics, and governance trends of the Lake Victoria Basin – home to over 45 million people across five EAC Partner States. 

It also demonstrates the efficiencies gained through the strong alignment of German Technical and Financial Cooperation. The SoBR draws on data from the Water Information System (WIS), financed by BMZ through KfW under the “Lake Victoria Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Program Phase 1–3” (total volume: EUR 60 million). This system is a cornerstone in enabling LVBC to effectively fulfil its mandate of coordinating the sustainable development and management of resources in the Lake Victoria Basin.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Julia Kronberg, Head of Development Cooperation in Tanzania and EAC, emphasised the value of regional collaboration in addressing climate challenges. “Germany is proud to partner with the East African Community in promoting data-driven climate action. We hope that the report will provide a sound basis for selecting and financing demand-driven investments in green and sustainable infrastructure projects, cross-border water resource management, and climate change adaptation measures that are tailored to actual needs and challenges.” she noted.

LVBC Executive Secretary Dr Masinde Bwire added that “The State of the Basin Report provides evidence-based insights that are critical for policy and action. It is a tool that strengthens transboundary cooperation and supports communities who depend on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods.”

In addition to the SoBR preview, the EAC is co-hosting seven other side events focusing on carbon markets, blue economy, climate-smart agriculture, clean cooking and just transition, regional co-operation in implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the scaling up of NbS initiatives.

**Partnership Engagements and Project Pitching**

Alongside side events, the EAC delegation is actively engaging in bilateral meetings and project pitching sessions with development partners and international financial institutions to mobilise financing for regional climate action.

Projects presented include:
- **Community Climate Resilience for Food Security in the EAC Region**, strengthening adaptation and climate-smart agriculture.
- **Access to Renewable Energy and Clean Technologies**, promoting affordable and sustainable energy solutions. 
- **Blue Economy – Source to the Sea**, advancing integrated management of inland and coastal ecosystems for climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

Mr Simon Kiarie Acting Director for Productive Sectors in EAC, noted that “these projects reflect East Africa’s shared ambition to transform regional strategies into tangible investments that improve livelihoods, strengthen resilience, and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth.”

These engagements aim to translate COP30 partnerships into concrete investments that drive climate-resilient development across the EAC region. 

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EAC Unveils the Lake Victoria State of the Basin Report and Engages with a Unified Regional Climate Position at COP30 (GIZ)

16 EAC Women in Trade Champions from eight EAC Partners States have been recognised for their outstanding leadership and contribution to Intra-EAC trade in various sectors during the 25th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair 2025, the largest MSMEs Trade Fair in the region.

The women champions had demonstrated exemplary skills, knowledge, and resilience in positioning their enterprises as drivers for regional economic integration and development, and were awarded by the chief guest, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Chair of the EAC Summit of Heads of State, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.

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Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto reaffirmed the commitment of EAC Heads of State to resolve persistent non-tariff barriers that continue to constrain cross-border trade. He noted that the surge in regional trade and investment reflects a maturing internal market, one increasingly defined by innovation, competitiveness, and the shared determination of East Africans to trade more with each other and prosper together.

President Ruto further noted that the exhibition provides a critical moment to confront issues hampering trade ahead of the upcoming EAC Summit set for early December 2025. “The conversations shaping this Trade Fair are ambitious and action-oriented focusing on digital transformation, affordable finance, expanded markets, and green enterprise,” he said.

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The event themed “25 Years of EAC Integration: Advancing Innovation and Regional Value Chains for Competetive MSMEs towards Sustainable Development” which brought together more than 3,000 exhibitors from across the eight EAC Partner States, is organized by the EAC Secretariat in collaboration with the Confederation of Micro and Small Enterprises Organization (CMSEO - EA), Partner States and development agencies including GIZ runs between 7 - 16 November 2025.

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The EAC Women in Trade Champions’ Initiative is a collaboration between the EAC Secretariat, East African Business Council, the East African Women in Business Platform and supported by GIZ - LIFTED, a project Co-financed by the European Union (EU) that aims to enhance women’s participation in regional economic integration. Anchored in the EAC Treaty and strategic frameworks, the initiative celebrates women who are actively shaping economic integration with the view to inspire, document, and amplify their impact.

The initiative emphasises the critical role of women in trade and highlights the importance of women's economic empowerment and leadership in driving regional economic growth and development in line with the integration agenda across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. 

The EAC MSMEs Trade Fair, also known as Jua Kali Fair, contribute towards the realisation of the region’s development goals and aspirations by lending support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, who are at the heart of the economies in the region. Additionally, it draws attention to the need for supportive policies and programs that address barriers that traders face such as access to markets, capacity development and cross-border trade among others. 



EAC Women in Trade Champions Awarded at the 25th EAC MSMEs Trade Fair 2025 (GIZ)

East Africans are trading more with each other and benefiting from an increasingly connected marketplace, with intra-EAC trade growing by 27%, from USD 14.2 billion to USD 18 billion between June 2024 and June 2025.

Within the same period, total EAC trade with the rest of the world increased by 22%, rising from USD 115.4 billion to USD 140.8 billion. This was shared during the opening of the 25th EAC Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair held in Nairobi, Kenya, where businesses from across the region are showcasing innovation, enterprise and cross-border collaboration.

The Trade Fair was officially opened by H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Chair of the EAC Summit of Heads of State, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.

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Speaking during the opening ceremony, President Ruto reaffirmed the commitment of EAC Heads of State to resolve persistent non-tariff barriers that continue to constrain cross-border trade. He noted that the surge in regional trade and investment reflects a maturing internal market, one increasingly defined by innovation, competitiveness, and the shared determination of East Africans to trade more with each other and prosper together.

President Ruto further noted that the exhibition provides a critical moment to confront issues hampering trade ahead of the upcoming EAC Summit set for early December 2025. “The conversations shaping this Trade Fair are ambitious and action-oriented focusing on digital transformation, affordable finance, expanded markets, and green enterprise,” he said.

Held under the theme “25 Years of EAC Integration: Advancing Innovation and Regional Value Chains for Competitive MSMEs towards Sustainable Development,” the 2025 Trade Fair brings together over 3,000 exhibitors from all eight Partner States.

The Fair runs from 7th –16th November 2025 and is organised by the EAC Secretariat in collaboration with the Confederation of Micro and Small Enterprises Organisation (CMSEO–EA) and Partner States. It serves as a dynamic marketplace for showcasing products, expanding market access and building regional business networks.

Through exhibitions, workshops, and business-to-business engagements, participants gain new skills, explore emerging technologies, and strengthen their competitiveness within and beyond the region.

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On his part, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, emphasised the need to strengthen access to finance to ensure that MSMEs can obtain affordable and inclusive financial services tailored to their realities. He also called for the removal of barriers to trade and stronger support for cross-border linkages to expand access to regional and continental markets.

“We must prioritise enabling MSMEs to adopt technology, embrace e-commerce, and embed sustainability in their business models,” he said. “Fostering joint programmes and harmonised policies that deepen integration and enhance resilience will be key to ensuring that MSMEs continue driving our region’s economic transformation.”

On her part, the EAC Deputy Secretary General for Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba Mutaawe, urged Partner States to strengthen local production, deepen regional value chains and enhance MSME access to finance, technology, and markets.

She emphasised that transforming the region’s export base from raw commodities to high-value manufactured goods is essential for sustainable industrialisation. “Manufactured exports currently account for less than 30% of total exports, while 64% of imports are manufactured goods largely from Asia. By deepening regional value chains and supporting MSMEs, we can reverse this trend and grow our own industrial capacity,” she noted.

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The EAC has continued to implement strategic interventions to support MSME development, and expanding training networks, particularly for women and youth, to enhance participation in cross-border trade.

The event also recognised 16 EAC Women in Trade Champions who have shown outstanding leadership and contribution to intra-EAC trade, and 18 winners of the Regional Quality Awards who have demonstrated exceptional innovation and product excellence in advancing competitiveness across the region.

The EAC Women in Trade Champions Initiative is a collaboration between the EAC Secretariat, the East African Business Council (EABC), and the East African Women in Business Platform (EAWiBP), supported by GIZ–LIFTED, a project co-financed by the European Union (EU) that aims to enhance women’s participation in regional economic integration.


EAC Trade on the Rise as Leaders Commit to Addressing Barriers at the 25th MSMES Trade Fair (GIZ)

From 26 October to 2 November 2025, a delegation of 24 representatives from East African e-commerce and private sector associations embarked on a study tour to Europe to foster strategic partnerships with European counterparts. Taking place in Brussels and Berlin, the visit aimed at promoting knowledge exchange and strengthen business linkages between East Africa and the EU.

This mission took place in the framework of the EU–EAC Digital Economy, E-Commerce, E-Payment and Public E-Services Programme (DEEP) – co-funded by the European Union (EU), the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of France and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia – and the Sustainable Business for Uganda (SB4U) project, funded by the EU Delegation to Uganda. It is jointly organised by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, including through its Pan-African E-Commerce Initiative, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and in close collaboration with the East African Business Council (EABC).

The engagements focused on a broad range of themes, including the structure and governance of national and regional private sector associations, coordination mechanisms among them, and practical strategies for advocacy and strategic positioning.  These discussions enabled stakeholders to identify best practices that can strengthen e-commerce associations within the East African Community (EAC). Further, they explored approaches to building consumer trust in e-commerce – such as trust seal mechanisms and consumer protection measures – and examined the EU’s policy and regulatory frameworks governing cross-border e-commerce. Most importantly, the mission aimed at laying the foundation for long-term strategic partnerships and business linkages between the private sectors of the EU and the EAC, fostering increased investment and trade.

The delegation met with leading organisations including e-commerce Europe, the Europe Business Network, the Belgian Association for E-Commerce (Becom), the German E-commerce Association (BEHV), the German-African Business Association (Afrika-Verein), the German IT association (Bitkom), Trade Promotion Europe, TrustedShops (a trust mark for e-commerce) and Logistics Natives (a global network of logistics companies). 

They also engaged with representatives from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), Directorate-General for Trade (DG TRADE) and Directorate-General for Competition (DG COMP), the Digital for Development (D4D) Hub and BMZ. Networking events in both Brussels and Berlin also provided opportunities for direct interaction with selected European private-sector representatives and business associations.

**About the EU-EAC DEEP Project**

EU-EAC DEEP is a four-year programme running from July 2025 to June 2029, jointly co-financed by the EU, BMA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of France, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia. The programme is implemented by GIZ, Expertise France (EF) and the Estonian Centre for International Development (EstDev).

The programme contributes to the Team Europe Initiatives “Supporting African economic integration towards the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)” and “Digital Economy and Society in Sub-Saharan Africa” to provide comprehensive support for trade and digitalisation towards a sustainable setup of an African single digital market with a robust cybersecurity environment. 

A key area of the programme is designed to enable, expand, enhance, and foster inclusive cross-border digital trade in East Africa and with Europe. This includes supporting the nascent e-Commerce ecosystem in East Africa, which holds tremendous potential to improve access to high-quality consumer goods, and to open new markets to East African and European private sectors.



East Africa and Europe Harness Partnerships to Drive E-commerce and Digital Trade (GIZ)

On 23 October 2025, Team Europe and its African partners launched a new regional initiative to strengthen health systems and expand access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) across East and Southern Africa. 

The programme Regional Access and Accountability for Increased SRHR Equity in East and Southern Africa (RAISE SRHR) aims to improve access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health services and commodities, while enhancing regional collaboration and accountability. Funded by the EU, Germany and Sweden, with a total investment of approximately EUR 19 million, It is implemented in close partnership with the EAC, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), GIZ and UN partners — including UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO — among other key stakeholders.

RAISE SRHR builds on long-standing investments by the EU and its Member States under the broader Africa–EU Health Partnership. 

The programme focuses on:

- Strengthening data and accountability systems for SRHR;
- Supporting equitable access and an increase of availability to quality-assured sexual and reproductive health commodities through regional pooled procurement and local manufacturing. 

Together, these efforts are strengthening resilience and regional cooperation to improve health and wellbeing for people across East and Southern Africa.  

Petra Pereyra, the EU Ambassador to Botswana and SADC, noted: “The programme we launch today reflects what Team Europe stands for: partnership, solidarity, and shared ambitions. Together with EU Member States, the East African Community, and the Southern African Development Community, we are investing in health systems that deliver by strengthening data and accountability for sexual and reproductive health and rights, and ensuring access to essential health commodities. This is Team Europe in action, collaborating with our African partners — united for equality and human rights for all.”

Eric Nzeyimana, Principal Health Officer at EAC, emphasised that the RAISE SRHR Initiative represents a significant milestone in our collective journey to strengthen and sustain resilient health systems across the East African region and beyond. "It builds on our ongoing efforts to enhance the use of health data, improve access to quality SRHR commodities, and address persistent inequalities within our health systems. I’m truly pleased to see this regional flagship initiative – co-created through strong collaboration among our partners – come to fruition and begin delivering tangible impact.” he said. 

Lamboly Kumboneki, Senior Programme Officer at SADC said: This initiative takes place at a crucial moment for our region, the sustainability of health systems in our Member States is at a crossroads, shaken by the new architecture of Official Development Assistance. This programme will support our ambition as a region to build resilient and sustainable health system by building local and regional capacity and facilitate access to quality and affordable medicines. 

Simone Goertz, Head of Economic and Development Cooperation at the German Embassy Gaborone, said: “The pharmaceutical sector is not just an industry; it is a cornerstone of health security and economic resilience. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of regional production, regional collaboration, increased availability and equitable access to essential medicines. The programme fits well with Germany’s long-standing global support of gender equality and EAC’s and SADC’s regional value chain development, regulatory harmonisation, and access to finance for pharmaceutical companies. The programme launched today is a testament to the power of partnership among Europeans and with Africa.”

Elisabeth Hårleman, Head of Development Cooperation, Sweden’s Regional SRHR Team stated: “This programme embodies Sweden’s integrated foreign policy and development cooperation where we team up, within the EU, to ensure a coordinated and efficient engagement with our partners on the African continent. Health and SRHR is a prioritised area for the Swedish Government’s global assistance – as it sets conditions and circumstances for social, gender and economic inclusion.”

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Team Europe and its African Partners Launch Joint Programme to Strengthen Health Systems in East and Southern Africa (GIZ)

The 20th edition of the Cashew Master Training Program (MTP) marked a significant step forward in professionalising the cashew industry across East Africa. For the first time, the training was hosted within the EAC region, with sessions held in Dar es Salaam and Mtwara, Tanzania and Nairobi, Kenya.

The programme successfully created a new cohort of regional experts and master trainers. Fifty-four participants from Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya, Zambia, Uganda, South Sudan, and Rwanda were equipped with advanced knowledge and practical skills in cashew production, processing, and market development. With this cohort, the region has gained a new network of experts who are ready to transform local value addition and enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the cashew value chain.

**A Strategic Focus on East Africa’s Cashew Potential**

East Africa’s growing prominence in the cashew sector made the region a natural host for the MTP, implemented by the African Cashew Alliance (ACA) and its partners. Tanzania, one of Africa’s top cashew producers, contributes around 20–25% of its agricultural export earnings through cashews but processes less than 10% of its raw nuts locally. This results in significant loss of value. Meanwhile, Kenya is revitalising a once-vibrant industry that faced decades of decline, with renewed government interest and investment as a potential export earner. The MTP addresses these gaps by training experts to improve productivity, support farmers, and expand local processing capacity.

In Tanzania, the MTP trains experts to improve farm productivity and strengthen processing capacity, positioning the country as a leader in full value-chain development, not just raw production. Kenyan participants were equipped with tools to support farmers, establish stronger cooperatives and rebuild local processing industries.

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**Collaboration Across Regions and Institutions**

The programme spearheaded by ACA and the Market-Oriented Value Chains for Jobs and Growth in the ECOWAS region (MOVE) project, aimed at fostering valuable South–South exchange of expertise from West Africa. It is supported by the European Union (EU), the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), the EAC Secretariat, and GIZ through the BMZ-funded project Support to East African Community Integration Process (SEAMPEC II).

National institutions such as the Cashew Board of Tanzania (CBT), the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), and the Institute of Nuts of Mozambique (INCAJU) provided technical support and field expertise throughout the training.

**Building Knowledge for Long-Term Impact**

The MTP curriculum combined theoretical learning and hands-on practice across the entire cashew value chain, from the development of improved planting materials and Good Agricultural Practices to post-harvest handling, processing, and marketing. Cross-cutting topics such as gender inclusion, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience were also integrated.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, representatives from GIZ, ACA, and the EAC Secretariat emphasised the need for a unified regional approach that links training, research, and policy dialogue to build a competitive, climate-resilient, and inclusive cashew industry.

Launched in 2013 in Burkina Faso, the Cashew MTP has become a cornerstone for sector transformation across Africa, creating a network of over 500 certified master trainers. Its expansion to East Africa marks a new phase of collaboration between the EAC and its partners, ensuring that the region’s cashew sector continues to grow as a driver of jobs, value addition, and sustainable trade.

![com cashew 7.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/com_cashew_7_649eca60e2.jpg)

February 26th, 2026