Under Article 115 of the Treaty establishing the East African Community, member states are committed to coordinating tourism policies and promoting regional cooperation to ensure equitable benefit distribution. Despite these efforts, there remains a need for a unified approach to collecting and analysing tourism data to inform decision-making effectively.

From 3 to 5 April, tourism experts and statisticians from the EAC Partner States convened in Nairobi, Kenya, to finalise the EAC Tourism Barometer Report. The EAC Tourism Barometer serves as a comprehensive tool to measure and analyse tourism trends and performance across the region. It captures key indicators such as tourist arrivals, earnings, and the purpose of visits, providing valuable insights into East Africa's tourism landscape.

Through regular updates and a confidence index, the barometer offers valuable information on tourism performance and prospects, aiding stakeholders in strategic planning.

The meeting highlighted East Africa's tourism resurgence and roadmap for future growth. Experts from each Partner State shared updates on the performance of the sector, including the number of tourist arrivals. Countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda were noted to have seen a significant increase in tourist arrivals in 2023. East Africa's tourism industry generated substantial earnings, with the majority of tourists visiting East Africa for leisure and wildlife experiences, contributing to the region's reputation as a top safari destination. During the discussions, it was evident that Kenya and Tanzania have attained a fast-paced recovery post-pandemic. 
 
In the compilation of the first issue of the barometer, the analysis revealed that total tourism receipts to the EAC region fully recovered in 2023, 24% higher than the pre-pandemic levels. Kenya and Tanzania recorded the best recovery levels, recovering 53% and 30%, respectively, above the pre-pandemic levels. Burundi also registered a full recovery of receipts in 2023. Rwanda tourism receipts recovered 97% of the pre-pandemic level, while Uganda recovered 83% of the 2019 levels. In 2023, EAC tourism receipts reached US$ 7.7 billion. This was a 30.9% increase when compared to 2022 (US$5.9 billion) and 7.2 billion in 2019.

The proportion of intra-regional tourism (EAC) expanded from 33.2% in 2019 to 45% in 2020 and 2022 before shrinking slightly to 40% in 2023. 

While highlighting these tourism trends, some Partner States noted the challenges they are facing in collecting complete data. The EAC pledged to support these countries in improving their data collection efforts to enhance and enable a broad understanding of the tourism sector and trends across the EAC region.

![tourism barometer 2.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/tourism_barometer_2_dd30eb9a64.jpg)

Other key discussions of the meeting encompassed the expansion of the Tourism Barometer to track the effectiveness and performance of the "Visit East Africa – Feel the Vibe" tourism brand. This will enable the measurement of the impact of EAC’s marketing efforts to attract more visitors to the region as a single tourism destination.

In conclusion, the meeting approved the draft report and agreed to share it with the EAC Sectoral Council for final approval. The Partner States also committed to updating tourism data on the EAC Open Data Portal by June 30, 2024, while ensuring transparency and accessibility to all stakeholders.

Find more information on the EAC tourism sector [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/tourism-and-wildlife-management). 

The EAC Tourism Barometer – A Comprehensive Tool to Assess East Africa's Tourism Landscape (GIZ)

On 24 April 2024, EAC-GIZ and the East Africa Law Society (EALS), marked the beginning of a strategic partnership and collaboration to foster Civil Society Organisations’ (CSOs) participation in the EAC regional economic integration process. As a significant milestone, the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise this partnership.

The signing ceremony, hosted at the EAC-GIZ office, was attended by Mr David Sigano, Chief Executive Officer, EALS; Mr Bjoern Richter, Cluster Coordinator, EAC-GIZ; Mr Marius Weist, Component Lead, Organizational Development and Outreach, EAC-GIZ,among other key representatives from EALS and EAC-GIZ who are experts in the civil society engagement field. Mr Marius Weist officially welcomed the EALS team and emphasized the significance of close collaboration towards achieving a common goal, which is creating impacts for East Africans through the integration process. 

In his opening remarks, Mr Bjoern, the Cluster Coordinator at EAC-GIZ, provided insights into the diverse areas of focus under the EAC-GIZ Programme, ranging from trade initiatives such as Trade in Services (TiS), Trade in Goods (TiG), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to sectors like education, health, and organizational development. The Cluster Coordinator highlighted that this MoU is an initiative that further expounds on the efforts to foster empowerment of CSOs, especially in the engagements of topics that are of high significance and relevance to push the integration agenda forward. Further, he underscored the importance of constantly showcasing the joint success and impacts of this partnership.

On his part, Mr. David Sigano, the EALS Chief Executive Officer, representing the EALS President, highlighted the areas of focus and ongoing initiatives undertaken by EALS on this topic. Further, he expressed willingness to jointly embark on this journey through collaborative efforts with shared objectives.

![WhatsApp Image 2024-04-24 at 15.10.33 (1).jpeg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Whats_App_Image_2024_04_24_at_15_10_33_1_2d9ce376fb.jpeg)

Some goals agreed upon by the two parties to foster CSO engagement in regional economic integration include:
- Capacitating CSOs through targeted training interventions.
- Providing technical assistance for CSO-led policy engagement project initiatives.
- Promoting advocacy and awareness campaigns on regional economic policy development and;
- Facilitating knowledge sharing and dialogue among civil society stakeholders.

EAC-GIZ and EALS anticipate strengthening civil society participation and amplifying their voices by leveraging synergies and resources to drive positive change and advance the EAC's regional economic integration policy and decision-making processes.

Stay tuned for more information on this partnership! 

Find more information on EAC-GIZ support to Gender, Community Development & Civil Society Mobilization [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/gender-community-development-and-civil-society-mobilization). 

Leveraging Synergies to Strengthen Civil Society Participation in the EAC Regional Economic Integration Process (GIZ)

From 23 to 26 April, a technical scoping workshop held at the EAC headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, examined the registration and digitalization processes of Competent Authorities for Engineers. The workshop, facilitated by experts from GIZ’s Digital Society Unit, brought together representatives from Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the EAC Secretariat, represented by the Principal ICT Officer, Mr Daniel Murenzi.

This platform provided experts with a space for fostering peer-to-peer learning, exchanging ideas, and defining practical solutions. Through thorough assessment and consultation, stakeholders identified areas for improvement and established the basis for a more efficient mutual recognition framework.

An envisioned digital platform seeks to simplify and expedite mutual recognition procedures by digitising documentation and communication channels. This streamlined approach is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of cross-border transactions and the overall quality of engineering services within the region. Moreover, it could serve as a blueprint for interoperable regional e-governmental services.

Looking ahead, there's tangible potential to expand the scope of the digital platform to include additional areas, such as mutual recognition of pharmaceuticals among other goods and services. This integrated system could catalyse broader regulatory harmonisation efforts, promoting greater consistency and efficiency in trade across East Africa.

To successfully achieve these initiatives and derive an impact on the community, Competent Authorities need to pledge commitment and willingness to implement the agreed-upon measures and embrace digital solutions.

The outcomes of these discussions pave the way for continued dialogue and collaboration, facilitating the development and implementation of digital solutions that transcend national borders. As a next step, it was unanimously agreed to proceed with developing a demo version of the platform. This version will visualise the expected outlook of the platform for further partner discussions and consideration.

Participants are confident that the platform will serve countless engineers in their endeavours for mutual recognition. Furthermore, it was emphasised that, while the focus of this process remains steadfast on a harmonised regional approach, it takes into account existing Partner States' national systems and interests. 

**Background**

In embracing digital innovation, the EAC reaffirms its commitment to progress. As the region embarks on this transformative journey, the fusion of digitalization and collaboration emerges as a promising avenue for improving professional recognition across borders.

The past signing of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) by Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the
United Republic of Tanzania represents a practical step forward in addressing the challenges of professional recognition within East Africa. With South Sudan on track to join and efforts underway to establish Competent Authorities in other EAC Partner States like Burundi, there's a clear momentum towards streamlining processes and enhancing regional integration.

The Digitalisation for East African Trade and Integration (DIGEAT) project, a collaborative initiative between the EAC and GIZ financed by BMZ, is taking the lead in supporting the implementation of this endeavour. This initiative aims to modernise the recognition process for licensed engineers by facilitating seamless digital exchange among regulatory bodies and leveraging regional e-government services.

Find more information on the DIGEAT project [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/digitalisation-for-east-african-trade-and-integration-digeat).


Exploring Digitial Solutions for Mutual Recognition of Professionals in East Africa – The Case of Engineers (GIZ)

From May to November 2023, the “Support to East African Integration” (SEAMPEC II) Programme conducted a comprehensive analysis of the current situation and future potential of emerging technologies in East Africa, with a focus on how they can benefit women and vulnerable groups such as the elderly, youth, children, and persons with disabilities. The study looks at the participation of these groups and their access to and utilisation of emerging technologies, including skills and appropriate policies for inclusiveness. It proposes a series of strategic actions for the EAC and its Partner States to create a regional framework for the adoption and utilisation of emerging technologies.

The assessment reviews the ICT legal instruments and policies at national and regional levels and identifies the existing gaps, audits the regulatory policy in the ICT sector, analyses emerging technology trends, EAC capacities to utilise identified technologies, and current uptake. The assessment also analyses ‘use cases’ for the utilisation of emerging technologies by women and vulnerable groups, for example in financial services, health care and assistive technologies for elderly and disabled persons, education, community engagement, networking, and agriculture.
The study provides recommendations on how access for women and vulnerable groups to ICT services can be established and improved, such as skills and conducive policies for inclusiveness, identification of relevant stakeholders from the Partner states, a capacity development programme, and timelines for implementation.

The assessment explores ownership and use of mobile phones, Internet access, computer access, as well as e-commerce access and usage at the individual level and among women and vulnerable groups in the EAC. It arrives at the conclusion that the region continues to struggle with broader technological adoption, with current data revealing that internet access was available for only 23% of the EAC population, with a mere 14% having access to high-speed mobile broadband services. It further states that advanced initiatives in 5G network implementation were limited to Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, with no EAC Partner State having established national strategies. It also reveals a lack of relevant regulations for emerging technologies, as most countries are still exploring initiatives with the private sector leading most of the innovations. Rwanda is mentioned as the only country that has developed a National Artificial Intelligence Policy in April 2023, the first of its kind in Africa.

Furthermore, the report observes that there is limited coverage of women and vulnerable groups in national policies and strategies regarding emerging technologies and notes that these limitations are attributed to factors such as insufficient infrastructure, high costs for services and devices, low digital literacy, regulatory challenges, and socio-cultural barriers. The report notes that the target groups experience exacerbated inequalities, often facing additional hurdles, including discrimination and exclusion, as far as the utilisation of ICT is concerned. However, it does not provide quantitative data on these inequalities.

The ICT gaps analysis on women and other vulnerable groups' participation and access to emerging technologies reveals that the majority of women and other vulnerable groups in the EAC have not embraced the use of ICT and digital tools to the same degree as other social groups. This is due to a lack of adequate infrastructure, education, and technical knowledge; a lack of business development and legal skills; a lack of proper mentorship; poor management; and inadequate start-up capital.

The assessment report recommends that the EAC Partner States should take the following steps to address the identified gaps:

- Develop and implement a harmonised policy framework that guides the adoption of emerging technologies.
- Coordinate regional infrastructure projects, such as cross-border connectivity initiatives, to improve internet and electricity access.
- Establish an EAC-wide platform or forum for technology innovation, inviting private sector stakeholders, academia, and investors to collaborate on technology solutions, particularly focusing on marginalised groups. Partner States should offer incentives such as tax breaks or grants for such initiatives.
- Initiate EAC-level programmes that promote skill sharing and capacity building across member states, focusing on emerging technologies. This could include digital literacy campaigns, exchange programmes, and online courses accessible to people in all Partner States.
- Create a framework for public-private partnerships in the technology sector that can be adopted at a regional level, ensuring it promotes innovation, investment, and inclusivity.
- Launch an EAC-wide campaign to raise awareness about the benefits of emerging technologies and increase community engagement, e.g., by showcasing success stories from within the region and globally.

Finally, the report suggests that addressing the digital divides for women and vulnerable groups demands an inclusive, collaborative approach that resonates with the unique needs and goals of these communities. The report urges the EAC Secretariat and Partner States to perform strategic alignment with broader regional initiatives, such as the EAC Vision 2050, the African Union Agenda 2063, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the ITU Connect 2030 Agenda, whose objectives require evidence-based planning centred on comprehensive, current data and an understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the digital transformation in the region.


The Status of Women's Utilisation of and Access to ICT and Emerging Technologies in East Africa ﻿ (GIZ)

The “Support to Pandemic Preparedness in the EAC Region” (PanPrep) project was initially launched in 2017 with the aim of supporting the EAC Partner States to strengthen the prevention and control of outbreaks of infectious diseases with epidemic potential. PanPrep involves stakeholders from the EAC Partner States in all its activities. The regional approach aims to create structures and capacities relevant for all EAC Partner States to facilitate a uniform, effective, responsible and balanced approach in pandemic preparedness at regional and national government levels. The project builds capacities at institutional, individual and community level. It supports mainstreaming of the One Health approach in the EAC region and institutionalises risk and crisis communication at the EAC Secretariat with the objective of empowering citizens to take informed decisions related to existing or emerging risks. Food safety, WASH implementation at border posts and surrounding communities and the establishment of an EAC regional pool of rapidly deployable experts are among the agreed activity areas with the EAC Secretariat. 

The objective of Global Programme on Pandemic Prevention and Response, One Health (GP PPOH) is to ensure that selected countries and regional organisations are better able to take effective measures to prevent and combat epidemics and pandemics within the framework of the One Health approach. A regional package aims at implementing the regional One Health Strategy in the East African Community (EAC) to institutionalize One Health in the region. 

The GP PPOH priorities identified during a programme appraisal with the EAC Secretariat in 2021 are built around five outputs. The outputs are focused on institutionalizing a One Health approach in the EAC Secretariat, capacity development in pandemic prevention and response through a One Health approach, prevention and control of transboundary animal diseases and zoonoses, food safety and support to establishing the EAC regional rapidly deployable pool of experts through a test deployment. The PanPrep and GP PPOH projects are working in close cooperation and alignment with the overarching objective to support pandemic preparedness and response in the EAC region.

**Job title:** Internship

**Location:** Arusha, Tanzania

**Responsibilities**

- Support the implementation of the PanPrep and GP PPOH projects, which aims at supporting pandemic preparedness and response efforts in the EAC and the EAC Partner States, including Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. In particular, the intern will support general project management, including communications and other daily operations.
- Supporting project management and the team in day-to-day activities such as logistical support of meetings, minutes of the meetings compilation, online research etc.
- Supporting the liaison with the staff in the relevant Departments of the EAC Secretariat on administrative and logistic proceedings
- Supporting the monitoring and evaluation of the PanPrep and GP PPOH projects, including ongoing activity reporting to the EAC Secretariat, contributions to regular operation planning meetings (preparation, documentation) with the EAC Secretariat partners, etc.
- Supporting the external communication of the PanPrep and GP PPOH projects, including in the social media and through the development of articles on events 
- Supporting the ongoing updating of PanPrep and GP PPOH project information such as on the EAC GIZ website
- Supporting the backstopping of the PanPrep activities to institutionalize risk and crisis communication at the EAC Secretariat, including drafting and editing of press releases and other content for the newly established RCC portal at the EAC Secretariat
- Supporting other adhoc tasks in the thematic scope of the PanPrep and GP PPOH projects, as required. 

**Required qualifications, competences, and experience**

- You have a bachelor’s or masters’ degree Social or Political Sciences, Economics, Communications or another related area. You possess basic knowledge and experience in project management, regional collaboration and development cooperation. Basic knowledge and experiences in the field of pandemic preparedness and response and/or One Health are an asset. Practical experience in the field of communications would be an additional advantage. 
- Good intercultural skills, experience in working in an international context, excellent communication and cooperation skills and strategic thinking are among your strengths. You can express your thoughts very well in writing and orally in English. Good command of French is an advantage; knowledge of German is not required but would be an additional benefit. You are a team player, well organized, able to work independently and in time-constraint settings, grasp new topics and knowledge areas quickly. You are a proficient user of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.).

**Applications:**

Please use the link: https://www.fuzu.com/jobs/giz-panprep-2024-01-internship-opportunity-giz-tz

Please use the subject line **“Internship- GIZ/PanPrep/2024/01 - Arusha”**. 

Closing date for submission: **13.05.2024.**

**Only applications of students who are currently enrolled at an institution of higher learning or have graduated not more than six months can be considered.**

GIZ Tanzania is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified and eligible candidates regardless of their gender, origin, religion/belief, disability, or any other minority group.





Internship Opportunity - Intern for the Projects PanPrep and GP PPOH in the area of Project Management and Operations (GIZ)

The Common Market is the East African Community's (EAC) second significant regional integration pillar, enforced since 2010 following the EAC Treaty. This milestone follows the Customs Union, which was established in January 2010. Despite market access commitments within professional service markets, the absence of recognition for foreign qualifications and experience remains a central obstacle to trading in professional services. This limitation hampers the unrestricted mobility of professionals across borders, whether as individuals or professional firms.

The Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) signed by the four countries - Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the United Republic of Tanzania - represent a significant stride towards addressing the abovementioned challenge. Following a prolonged period of dormancy, additional countries, such as South Sudan is now joining while efforts are underway to establish Competent Authorities in other EAC Partner States. These MRAs encompass various professions in the countries mentioned above, including accountants, architects, engineers, and veterinarians.

German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Tanzania has signed an agreement with the EAC Secretariat to implement together a project called "Digitalisation of East African Trade and Integration (DIGEAT)". The project's main objective is to simplify cross-border access to labour markets in the EAC partner states for engineers. 

DIGEAT stands at the forefront of revolutionising the digital implementation of MRAs. This pioneering effort calls for an in-depth study to identify any current obstacles hindering the recognition of engineers and to measure the readiness of EAC partner states that have signed MRAs for full-scale implementation. This thorough analysis covers various factors, including Competent Authorities governance structures, registration procedures, and adherence to national legislation. Furthermore, it involves benchmarking against national/regional standards, evaluating associated legal frameworks, considering labour economics, and assessing digital readiness. By delving into these critical areas, DIGEAT aims to ensure a seamless transition towards digital operationalisation while setting a precedent for efficient and effective implementation of MRAs across various sectors and regions.

Henceforth, GIZ Tanzania/EAC cordially invites qualified consultancy firms to submit tenders for this consultancy. Prospective consultants should possess a robust network and exhibit the requisite resources to complete the assigned task successfully.

Interested candidates can access the tender documents by clicking [here](https://www.giz.de/en/worldwide/136046.html). 

**Submission of offer:**

Please submit technical and financial proposal by email to **tz_quotation@giz.de** latest by **21st April 2024**.

We will answer your request during office hours from 8:00 to 15:00 hours local time, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.

Late Bids, Partial Bids, Bids not received shall not be accepted for evaluation irrespective of the circumstances.

GIZ is not obliged to follow any condition in nominating the supplier and has the right to accept or reject any or all bids.



Tender Invitation - Consultancy Services to Conduct a Baseline Study for the Project Digitalisation for East African Trade and Integration (DIGEAT) (GIZ)

On 8 March 2024, the EAC-GIZ Cluster Programme, in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat, East African Women in Business Platform (EAWiBP), East African Business Council (EABC), and representatives from regional private sector and civil society organisations, jointly celebrated International Women’s Day 2024, themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, at the EAC Secretariat Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.

The theme emphasises the critical need to channel resources and support towards women's empowerment, particularly in the realm of financial inclusion.

The celebration was accompanied by a dialogue and capacity building sessions to discuss how women can effectively contribute to economic development in the region when included and involved in the engagements and decision making in all factors of social, political, and economic development, including in health, Finance and education. The session provided opportunities to advance women’s financial literacy and digital skills, identified entry points for advancing the investments in women and their role in financial markets in the EAC and provided an outlook for gender inclusion in pandemic preparedness, prevention and response in East Africa Region.

In her opening remarks, Dr Irene Charles Isaka, Director of Social Sectors, EAC emphasized the importance of promoting gender equality and inclusion. She highlighted the significance of the campaign theme "Inspire Inclusion" as a call to champion women's participation in all aspects of society. She noted that despite progress made in the region in promoting women’s inclusion in all aspects, challenges remain, including a significant funding deficit for gender-equality measures. She then underscored the need for individual and collective efforts to support women's inclusion in leadership, decision-making, and economic empowerment initiatives with a call for progressive mindsets and inclusive behaviors to further advance gender equality.

"Investing in women is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative." In her remarks, Janice Kimaro, on behalf of the chairperson of EAWiBP, emphasised that women represent a vast reservoir of untapped potential and that her organisation was committed to empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals across the region. She added that by investing in women’s empowerment, the region can unlock unprecedented opportunities for development and peace.

![Picture1.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Picture1_adee1e566e.jpg)

Mr  John Bosco Kalisa, CEO of EABC, uncovered the disparities in economic participation and empowerment between genders based on the gender gap report 2024. He noted a 21% pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. He outlined the significant initiatives that EABC was championing in the promotion of women’s economic empowerment through the SMEs platform, the removal of NTBs, trade facilitation, and policy engagement. He concluded by urging the EAC Partner States to promote equality, inclusion, and diversity to accelerate gender parity, access to affordable finance, foster innovation, promote STEM education for girls, implement effective gender policies, share trade information, raise awareness on gender issues, and create a supportive environment for women and girls to benefit from the AfCFTA protocol on women and youth in Africa.

In his closing remarks, Mr  Bjoern Richter, Cluster Coordinator, EAC-GIZ, commended the EAC Partner States for promoting female leaders at the Secretariat, demonstrating political will to promote inclusive decision-making and leadership. He urged relevant partners to support women's economic livelihoods, and financial and digital inclusion to ensure gender equality in all aspects. Bjoern also alluded to the work the EAC-GIZ programme does with the EAC Secretariat, regional private sectors, and civil society, contributing to closing the gender digital divide, ensuring an effective pandemic response within the EAC borders, and improving cross-border trade for women SMEs. Finally, he urged the EAC Partner States to increase their contributions towards inclusive gender-policy development, programming, and implementation to foster inclusivity in the region's economic development.

Find more information on EAWiBP [here](https://eawibp.org/). 

Find more information on the EAC-GIZ support to Gender, Community Development & Civil Society Mobilization [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/gender-community-development-and-civil-society-mobilization).

Watch the brief coverage of the 2024 International Women's Day celebrations in Arusha, Tanzania [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvTd4hgofIQ). 


International Women’s Day 2024 – “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” (GIZ)


From 6 to 8 March, the 3rd East African Community Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Conference took place in Nairobi, Kenya, with an appeal to all stakeholders to work together to enable the Community to tap into and benefit from STI opportunities and accelerate their diffusion. Making the appeal, Ms. Hendrina C. Doroba, the Division Manager in charge of Education and Skills Development at the African Development Bank (AfDB) East Africa Regional Office, noted that accelerating the development and diffusion of STI in East Africa will not only lead to the growth of innovative solutions to regional challenges but also drive the commercialization of such innovations for industrial development.

Ms. Doroba emphasised that there is still much to be done to harness its full potential and accelerate socio-economic transformation as outlined in the EAC Vision 2050 and Agenda 2063 of the Africa we want. “Today, East Africa’s innovation level is insufficient to reach ambitious levels of inclusive growth and development due to prevailing technological and innovation constraints, which include financing, and information asymmetries that need to be addressed to harness STI full potential fully,” said Ms. Doroba, adding that the situation had been worsened by the slow global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russian-Ukraine war. “A critical pathway in responding to these challenges and ensuring that STI works for East Africa is the urgent need to train the next generation of scientists and innovators, who should take the lead in driving the region’s development agenda,” she added.

Ms. Doroba, who represented AfDB East Africa Director General Nnenna Lily Nwabufo at the conference’s opening session, said that any inclusive growth and sustainable development call for the growth of innovations to promote the creation of new enterprises, increase productivity, support new jobs, and drive economic prosperity. She observed that the slow progress in building the skilled workforce in STI has adversely affected the Community’s ability to transform its economies and increase productivity and competitiveness. “It is essential to note that the quality of learning at all levels of skills development, particularly in science, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), is low compared to other regions. For example, for Africa as a continent, of all students that graduated from higher education institutions in 2021, those in STEM fields were on average 21.7% compared to 25.6% in other regions,” she highlighted.

“Addressing this could be made possible by combining our interventions with the power of science, technology, and innovations through enhancing the capacity of our high education and research institutions and promoting multi-stakeholder partnerships for homegrown solutions to our development challenges,” noted Ms. Doroba.

The AfDB official said that harnessing science, technology, and innovation requires deliberate investments in human capital development tailored to the changing socio-economic development ecosystem.

Ms. Doroba said that to promote STI solutions for a resilient East Africa and enhance value addition and competitiveness in the region, the Bank is working with other partners to train scientists and innovators through quality and relevant STEM skills. “The Bank has done this through our Skills for Employability and Productivity for Africa (SEPA) Action Plan (2022-2025), guiding our investments, operations, and strategic engagements in science and innovation in Africa,” she added.

“The Action Plan aims to develop a skilled and competitive workforce capable of increasing productivity and spurring innovation for access to decent jobs and improved quality of life for the people in Africa,” said Ms. Doroba.

Officially opening the conference on behalf of Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Ezekiel Machogu, the Director General of the National Council of Science and Technology, Prof. Walter Oyawa, called for increased efforts in science diplomacy and science communication to enhance appreciation of STI by various stakeholders. Prof. Oyawa noted that there was a need for scientists and innovators to communicate more with politicians about the need to allocate more resources to investments in STI, noting that this would yield immense benefits for the region, as has been the case with developed countries.

He observed that mistrust in science and technology had escalated among members of the public, adding that the reduction in trust was responsible for the rejection of vaccines and genetically modified organisms, among other technologies.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO), Dr. Sylvance Okoth, disclosed that EASTECO has developed STI policies, strategies, and regulations to operationalize various aspects of various EAC policy instruments in its quest to promote the development, management, and application of science and technology in Partner States. “This STI conference is therefore one of the interventions through which science and technology promote the EAC integration agenda, as it accords stakeholders an opportunity to come together to exchange scientific information and, in the process, create new linkages and strengthen bonds of collaboration,” said Dr. Okoth.

“Through these interventions, the commission aims to enhance production, dissemination, and adoption of new and emerging technologies and innovations to spur social and economic enterprises in the region,” added the Executive Secretary.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Gaspard Banyamkimbona, urged conference participants to engage in open dialogue, build new connections, and forge collaborations that will propel scientific advancements and contribute to sustainable development in the region.

“Let us use this platform to foster cross-disciplinary exchange, challenge existing paradigms, and collectively seek solutions that address the most complex problems facing our communities,” said Prof. Banyankimbona. “Together, we can harness the power of science, technology, and innovation to build a brighter future for East Africa, one where scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for our citizens and where collaborative RDI initiatives pave the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come,” he added.

On his part, Mr. Bjorn Richter, the EAC GIZ Cluster Coordinator, noted that GIZ had supported STI since the establishment of the Community in 1999, adding that the aim of this support was to bring innovation to drive intra-regional trade and economic growth in East Africa.

Mr. Richter further added that Germany’s aim was to foster a digital skills innovation ecosystem with universities to develop joint investment pipelines with the private sector.

He disclosed that his country’s current priority was digital transformation and green transition, adding that the focus was shifting more towards digital e-commerce to power trade and GDP growth while mitigating the negative effects of climate change.

Find more information on the EAC-GIZ support on this topic [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/education-and-training#digital-skills). 

Accelerating Development & Diffusion of STI Solutions for a Green, Inclusive & Resilient East Africa

Data protection is increasingly important, especially to ensure privacy and protect sensitive data, as well as consumer and human rights. In addition, sound data protection frameworks encourage trade, investment, and ease regional integration. For these reasons, countries in the East African Community are increasingly setting up data protection frameworks and data protection authorities to enforce these frameworks. However, the countries are at very different stages in the development and operationalization of these frameworks. While some countries have active data protection authorities, other countries have no legal framework. Several countries are in the very initial stages of setting up their data protection authority. There is, therefore, a great potential for the new authorities and countries with no legislation to learn from other countries with more experience.

It is against this background that the European Commission, through two initiatives (the Data Governance in Africa Initiative and the African Union European Union (AU-EU) Digital for Development (D4D) Hub Project), and in collaboration with the East African Community (EAC), is supporting the implementation of data protection frameworks in East Africa. Through a series of workshops, research initiatives, and study visits, the project is paving the way for knowledge exchange and peer-to-peer learning among countries at varying stages of data protection law development. The first knowledge exchange took place on September 13 to 14, 2023, as stakeholders convened in Nairobi, Kenya, with the participation of key regional stakeholders, including representatives from the data protection sector, local private enterprises, and civil society organisations.

From 6 to 7 March, the East Africa Exchange on Data Protection took place in Kampala, Uganda, hosted by the Uganda Data Protection Authority, the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO). The exchange advanced discussions on the importance of regional cooperation in establishing common data protection standards. Further, it aimed to enhance knowledge and experience sharing in data protection law enforcement at the East African regional level, fostering peer-to-peer connections, best practices exchanges, and learning opportunities.

In attendance at the event were data protection authorities in the EAC (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Somalia), representatives from the Ministries of ICT and agencies responsible for the development of data protection laws from all EAC countries, Ministries for EAC Affairs, the EAC Secretariat, the East Africa Business Council (EABC), the Africa Union Commission (AUC), the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA), and development partners, among others.

For the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), Ms Stella Alibateese, National Personal Data Protection Director, emphasised that “We must recognise the diverse stages of development and implementation of data protection and privacy laws across the East African Community Partner States. Within this diversity lies our strength—the unparalleled opportunity for knowledge exchange, peer learning, and collective growth. Our resolve to address cross-border challenges and embrace a future of shared regulation has never been stronger.”

The EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade, and Monetary Affairs, Annette Ssemuwemba, noted that “In East Africa, safeguarding data is not just a necessity but a cornerstone for progress. Establishing robust data protection agencies and harmonising regulations is imperative for fostering trust, enabling seamless collaboration, and driving regional integration. As we unite our efforts to protect data, we forge a path towards a digitally secure and interconnected East Africa."

The Deputy Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Uganda, Mr Guillaume Chartrain, highlighted that “Data protection is not merely a technical or legal issue but a fundamental prerequisite for upholding democracy, fostering economic growth, and safeguarding individual rights. This is a lesson we have learned in Europe, and we stand ready to support the East African region and the African continent as a whole on its journey towards a responsible and citizen-centred approach to personal data protection.”

Further, the Data Governance for Africa Initiative Head of Programme, Franz von Weizsäecker, noted, “We are happy to support the African Union, its Regional Economic Communities such as EAC, and its member states in their efforts to develop and implement state-of-the art data policies. I am looking forward to understanding the priorities of Eastern African data protection authorities so that we can design suitable support mechanisms for regional initiatives.”
Two research projects prepared by Strathmore University (Kenya) were presented: a legal gap analysis covering the existing data protection frameworks in the EAC, highlighting their similarities and differences, as well as a collection of relevant resources for the data protection authorities. Participants worked together to agree on a shared vision for the EAC as well as immediate steps that can be taken to ease cross-border data flows, trade, and regional integration.

The participants discussed how best support could be provided to countries lacking adequate laws or authorities in this domain, ensuring they are brought up to par with established standards. There was emphasis on improving coordination and flow of information at the national and regional level, between development partners and other interested stakeholders, as well as within the national ecosystem. This helps avoid duplication of efforts.

The AU-EU D4Dhub Project Coordinator, Cristina de Lorenzo, said, “For the AU-EU D4D Hub Project, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange in data protection across East Africa is a vital step towards building a resilient digital future for Africa. Through our initiatives, we support African institutions to create an enabling environment for an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. This event in Kampala marks another significant milestone in our shared journey towards harmonising standards and facilitating cross-border cooperation.”

**Background**

The Data Governance in Africa Initiative supports the African Union (AU) and its member states to form development-oriented and human-centric data regulation, data use, and data infrastructure at continental, regional, and member state levels. The Initiative provides concrete support for a single digital market in Africa by harmonising regulations on data, creating cross-border data flow, and promoting investments in secure and sustainable data infrastructure facilities. Funded by the European Union and its five Member States (Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France, and Germany), under the Global Gateway strategy, the project is implemented from 1 January 2023 to 31 July 2026. This activity is implemented by GIZ. 

The AU-EU D4D Hub is a Team Europe project, co-funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by Enabel, GIZ, Estonia Development Cooperation, AFD, Expertise France, and LuxDev. It is part of the D4D Hub, an EU-led platform that creates and leverages partnerships to shape a sustainable digital future worldwide. This activity is implemented by GIZ. The project supports African institutions to create an enabling environment for an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. It provides demand-driven technical assistance, promotes knowledge sharing, and facilitates multi-stakeholder dialogues.

Find more information [here](https://d4dhub.eu/au-eu-project). 



EU and EAC Build Bridges for Data Protection in East Africa

The EAC Secretariat, with the support of the EAC-GIZ programme, commissioned a scoping study on pharmaceutical waste management as part of the implementation of the EAC Medicines and Health Technologies Policy 2018 and the EAC Regional Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan of Action 2017-2027. The study undertaken in six EAC Partner States (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania Mainland, and Uganda) aimed to establish the status of pharmaceutical waste management in the EAC and make practical recommendations for the effective, safe, and sustainable disposal of pharmaceutical waste.

Residues from pharmaceutical products have been detected in drinking water, natural water bodies, and wastewater. They can pose serious environmental and health hazards to humans, animals, and plants on land and in water bodies. The mass production of antibiotics, their excessive and haphazard use, and the many pathways of their release into the environment have all been linked to a significant increase in the number of pathogens with anti-microbial resistance, posing a severe threat to public health. Contamination of wastewater systems by pharmaceutical residues causes the greatest environmental hazard because conventional treatment systems are not designed to remove them.

The study addressed 312 stakeholders, including national medicines regulatory agencies, national medical stores, national environment agencies, pharmaceutical product manufacturers, dispensing pharmacies, hospitals and clinics, pharmaceutical stores, garbage collectors’ companies, and Ministries of Health, to collect data on the amount of pharmaceutical waste produced and its disposal.

The findings show that pharmaceutical waste accumulates annually due to consumption, overproduction, rejected consignments, unused donations, patient leftovers, and over-prescription. The study considered the variation of methodologies, records, and definitions in the Partner States to determine the rough estimates for pharmaceutical waste disposals.

The disposal is estimated at an annual cumulative of 33.4 thousand metric tonnes, an average of 0.3kg per person. Private households contribute 5 to 15% of total generated waste. Manufacturers, regulators, health facilities, and stores dispose of solid waste through incineration, while some hospitals, retail chemists, and warehouses use burning, landfill, or garbage collection as the almost exclusive disposal method. Further, liquid waste is diluted and poured into sinks, sewers, or the environment.
So far, consumers are least involved in pharmaceutical waste disposal, and there is minimal engagement and guidance by the authorities for households on the appropriate disposal of pharmaceutical waste. For instance, a very small percentage (less than 1%), almost negligible percentage of households return unused or expired medicines to the chemists, hospitals, stores, or the relevant authorities for safe disposal.

The only method for pharmaceutical waste disposal approved by the regulatory authorities is incineration under clearly specified conditions. Landfilling or simple burning of pharma waste is hazardous, and dilution and disposal through wastewater are the most unsafe methods.
All EAC Partner States have policies and guidelines for the management of pharmaceutical waste in place. However, the policies are seldom enforced due to lack of resources, among other factors, including:

- There are few incinerators, and they are often not in line with recommended standards.
- Cumbersome disposal processes, e.g., too many administrative steps
- Logistical problems such as lack of transport, proper collection, and temporary storage space for pharmaceutical waste.
- Lack of harmonised guidelines at the regional level for the Partner States.
- There is little public awareness about the hazards of handling pharmaceutical waste.

In this regard, this scoping study proposes several practical measures as best practices for the management of unavoidable pharmaceutical waste in East Africa:

- Enforcing the implementation of existing laws, regulations, and guidelines on pharmaceutical waste management.
- Introduce waste segregation as part of the general waste management system to separate hazardous waste.
- Train employees in factories, health facilities, etc. on the proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste.
- Conduct awareness-creation campaigns and educate citizens on proper pharmaceutical waste disposal processes, including household waste collectors, in all efforts of proper waste handling.
- Develop a strategy and a clear roadmap to address the challenges of pharmaceutical waste management in the region.
- Governments should enforce the rational prescription of drugs.

As a follow-on to the validation of the study, the Partner States, with support from the EAC Secretariat, will develop a regionally harmonised guideline for a common approach in the EAC Region. Communication and information material to make the public and private sector aware of appropriate pharmaceutical waste management approaches. This will include industry, key public institutions, private medical stores, health facilities, pharmacies, and household garbage collectors. Additionally, a regional survey on the suitability of the existing incinerators across Partner States will be conducted.

Find more on the EAC-GIZ support to pharmaceuticals [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/industrialisation-sme-development#pharma).

Photo: © Muvunyi Ernest

May 8th, 2024