The European Union (EU) has reinforced its commitment to East Africa by launching three new projects with the East African Community (EAC) aimed at strengthening regional integration, boosting trade, and driving inclusive economic growth.The initiatives will aid the EAC in liberalising services, enforcing competition policies, and strengthening institutional capacity, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and youth.Backed by an €8 million contribution from the EU, the projects are set to drive deeper regional economic integration and streamline cross-border trade within the EAC.According to Christine Grau, EU Ambassador to Tanzania and the EAC, the EU has a longstanding and valued partnership with the EAC. “These projects reinforce our commitment to this collaboration and will contribute to a more competitive and inclusive regional economy.”The first project, “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and Civil Society Organisations”, aims to remove barriers to trade in services by simplifying tourism regulations and promoting the mutual recognition of academic and professional qualifications across the region.The second project focuses on strengthening the EAC Competition Authority by improving the enforcement of competition laws, aligning regulations and enhancing institutional capacity.The third initiative, EU-EAC Technical Assistance, will support the EAC’s institutions by improving project management and strengthening public finance governance.Annette Ssemuwemba, the EAC deputy secretary general in charge of customs, trade and monetary affairs, said the expanded support would strengthen the Authority’s ability to fulfil its mandate and promote fair competition, ultimately giving consumers more choices and driving down the cost of goods and services. LV
