JUMUIYA NEWS

ISSUE 30 - JAN - MAR ,2015

A MAGAZINE OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EAST AFRICAN AFFAIRS

World Bank Pledges 1.2 billion dollars for EAC Infrastructure MINISTRY OF EAST AFRICAN AFFAIRS, COMMERCE AND TOURISM Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 1 JUMUIYA NEWS Contents

Jumuiya News is the official magazine of the Ministry of East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism. It is published quarterly by the State Department of East African Affairs, Ministry of East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism.

EDITORIAL BOARD Editorial Adviser/Chair: Contributors: John O. Konchellah, PS Peter Chege Kamau Michael Okidi Alternate Chair: Irene Musebe Alfred Kitolo Timothy Muellar Grace Wasike Editor: Noel Wandera Kaplich Barsito Effie Omondi Simon Owaka Secretary: Alice Yala Michael Okidi Photographers: Members: Bernard Mwendwa Alice Yalla Daniel Onyancha World Bank Guard Peter Kasango Simon Owaka Raphael Kanothi Michael Okidi 5 Pledges $1.2 11 Maritime Winnie Cheserem Benedict Wasiche Billion For EAC Sector Against Simon P. Owaka Infrastructure. Saboteurs PUBLISHED BY Master Brands Limited, BBC Bldg., Dar-es-Salaam Rd. P.O. Box 4006-00506 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 20 2712712, +254 20 2712713 [email protected] | www.masterbrands.co.ke Editorial: Infrastructure Development 5 Critical For Economic Growth Design, Layout, Creative & Art Direction Erick Omondi Ayara Samar Al-Kindy EAC Council Of Ministers Told To Mobilize 7 $100B For Infrastructure Projects All correspondence should be addressed to: The Principal Secretary, State Department of East African Affairs, 10 Boost For Kenyan Exporters As EAC Signs Co-operative Bank House, Haile Sellassie Ave. New Trade Deal With EU P.O. Box 8846-00200, City Square Nairobi. Tel: +254 20 2245741, +254 20 2211614 Counties Asked To Enact Integration Fax: +254 20 2229650 13 Friendly Laws Email: [email protected] | www.meac.go.ke Jumuiya News admits no liability for unsolicited articles or pictures, which must be accompanied with a self-addressed, 14 EA Monetary Union To Have Safeguards stamped envelop. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure Against Possible Financial Crises the accuracy of information contained in this newsletter, the writers, editor and publisher accept no responsibility for any loss, financial or otherwise, sustained by any person using this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form by any means, without prior written permission from the Ministry of East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism.

COVER: President Uhuru Kenyatta assisted by First Lady Margaret Kenyatta launches the ONLINE MAGAZINE: construction of the Standard Gauge Railway in Mombasa. Also in the picture are Deputy For the online version of this magazine, with additional President William Ruto and Infrastructure and Transport CS Eng. Michael Kamau. material and an opportunity to air your views, please visit: www.meac.go.ke2 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

EAC Integration on the Right Track

– Kandie

Kenyan Cabinet Secretary (CS) for East “The single tourism visa is aimed at “Other key achievements include African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism, easing movement of tourists within the harmonization of classification of work Mrs Phyllis Kandie, is confident that three Partner States without the need permits and the elimination of work the East African Community integration for multiple national visas. The United permits’ fees by Rwanda, Uganda and process is well on course. Republic of Tanzania has also hinted that Kenya, operationalization of the East it will soon join this initiative,” she said. African passport and establishment of Mrs Kandie said the EAC was the special immigration counters for East world’s fastest growing regional On the free movement of persons, Africans at the various points of entry.” economic bloc and attributed its many which is one of the key provisions of the achievements to the political goodwill Common Market Protocol, Mrs Kandie Mrs Kandie later in November handed that the Community’s Heads of State said that Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda over the chairmanship of the Council of have for the integration. had also agreed to use national IDs, Ministers to her Tanzanian counterpart, voting cards and student IDs as travel Mr Samuel Sitta, during a meeting of the Mrs Kandie said the EAC was now documents among their citizens. Council held at the Kenyatta International the world’s fastest growing regional Convention Centre in Nairobi. Mr Sitta economic bloc with a combined Gross “We opted for ID cards because hailed Mrs Kandie for successfully Domestic Growth rate of 6% per annum. acquisition of passports is expensive steering the Community for the one year and requires a longer process. To this she was chairperson of the Council. The CS, who is the immediate former end, Kenya plans to upgrade its national Chairperson of the EAC Council of IDs to machine-readable ones from next Mr Sitta, Tanzania’s Minister for East Ministers, said the Community had year while Uganda is in the process of African Cooperation, said the key focus achieved several milestones during the introducing the same. The Partner States for the Council in the year ahead will one year that she was at the helm, and are also developing an EAC electronic be on the implementation of the Single cited as the most significant the signing passport (e-passport) for purposes of Customs Union, the Common Market of the Economic Partnership Agreements international travel,” she said. and the Monetary Union. (EPAs) between the EAC and the European Union. Mrs Kandie was addressing a media “This necessitates the elimination of non- breakfast meeting at a Nairobi hotel that tariff barriers and amendment of National “We have now concluded negotiations was purposely organised to act as a Laws to conform to the requirements of with the European Union on the EPAs. curtain raiser to the EAC Heads of State the Common Market Protocol in order to Both Parties agreed on the outstanding Summit meeting that was to be held on allow East Africans enjoy the freedoms issues and initialed the EPA documents November 30, 2014. we have agreed,” he said. to signal the conclusion of the EPA The CS said significant progress negotiations,” said Mrs Kandie, adding had also been registered in the He brushed aside fears among skeptics that the initialing of the EPA documents telecommunications sector particularly within and outside the EAC that the on 14th October, 2014, marked 8 years on roaming charges. integration process was stalling, insisting of intense negotiations. that the region would remain united “Beginning October 1, 2014, customers given the history and uniqueness of the She said the EPAs would enable both travelling across Kenya and Rwanda integration process. agricultural and industrial products from have been enjoying calls without roaming the EAC Partner States to access the EU charges. Essentially, it now costs The Minister urged the EAC Secretariat market duty free. KShs.10 down from KShs.25 to call and Partner States scale up sensitization across networks in the two countries. It efforts saying increased awareness The CS also singled out the adoption is expected that Uganda will soon enter would build confidence among wananchi of the EAC Single Tourist Visa by into this arrangement,” she said. and other stakeholders in the integration Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda as a major process. achievement.

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 3 JUMUIYA NEWS

EDITORIAL Infrastructure Development Critical for Economic Growth

he directive by the East African discovered significant deposits of oil and is expected to run all the way to Uganda Community Heads of State natural gas creating a huge potential for and Rwanda (with a branch to Kisumu). T Summit to the bloc’s Council of an extractive industry in East Africa. Most Ministers to mobilize $100 billion for the of these discoveries have been made in Other than LAPSSET and SGR, we also development of infrastructure projects areas with little or limited infrastructural have the Northern Transport Corridor over the next 10 years could not have development. To get these resources to road network which runs from Mombasa come at a better time. local and international markets, we must through Nairobi to Uganda, Rwanda and build modern roads, railways, refineries, South Sudan. Equally refreshing was the Summit’s power lines and ports. adoption of the EAC’s 10-year The Central Transport Corridor runs from investment strategy for priority regional Infrastructure development will inevitably Dar-es-Salaam to Bujumbura and Kigali. infrastructure projects. require huge financial outlays running Railway networks which are part and into billions of dollars. It is therefore parcel of these projects will revolutionize During the 3rd EAC Heads of State encouraging that at the infrastructure long distance transport in the region. Retreat on Infrastructure Development retreat, the World Bank through its These mega initiatives will hopefully and Financing in Nairobi on November Country Director for Burundi, Tanzania avail better connections for landlocked 29th, 2014, the Summit instructed and Uganda, Mr Philippe Dongier, countries to ports on the Indian Ocean the Council to mobilize the required pledged $1.2 billion (KShs108 billion) seaboard. resources by holding annual briefing for the development of infrastructure in roundtables for infrastructure investors East Africa, a move which will increase It is notable that Partner States have set and financiers in addition to showcasing the EAC’s competitiveness in terms of in motion plans to revive water transport investment opportunities. investment, trade and tourism. on Lakes Tanganyika and Victoria. The two main Indian Ocean ports of The Summit further advised the Council We should also consider involving Mombasa and Dar are also undergoing to engage bilateral and multilateral the private sector in infrastructure expansion to enhance their capacity development partners as part of efforts development. One way of private and efficiency in handling increased to mobilize technical and financial sector participation in infrastructure cargo destined for the EAC region and support for project planning and development is through public-private beyond. All these initiatives will facilitate implementation. sector partnerships (PPPs), whereby easier movement of people, goods and Apart from investment in human private sector firms are given generous capital as enshrined in the EAC Common resource development through initiatives to build much needed Market Protocol. education, training, healthcare and facilities for which government lacks the better social amenities, the development finances. The participating firm is given Besides constructing good transport of infrastructure is the surest way to a timeframe to recoup its investment networks, EAC countries should also spur economic growth, improve living after which the facility reverts to public strive to generate sufficient energy to standards and reduce poverty not just ownership. PPPs have been used power the engines of growth and a in East Africa but the entire African with resounding success in the newly surplus for export. continent. industrialised economies of East Asia. As we undertake all these initiatives, As Deputy President William Ruto said Transport is one area where the EAC we must not forget that infrastructure in at the retreat, Africa is a continent on the requires heavy investment. Individual itself is not development but a means to rise with the highest GDP growth rate of countries are already undertaking development. To paraphrase the Deputy 5%. The DP went on to point out that the projects in railways, roads and ports. It President, we should stay focused continent therefore needs to put in place also instructive that there is increased on taking our region to the next level the necessary infrastructure that will cooperation among the Partner States through agro-processing, manufacturing facilitate the kind of growth its population in mega infrastructure development and industry which will create jobs and requires. The DP described the required projects which have roped in even non- prosperity. infrastructure as that which goes beyond EAC member states. These include the national borders. Lamu Port and South Sudan Ethiopia We at the State Department of East Transport (LAPSSET) corridor which was African Affairs look forward to the The EAC is a region at the threshold of a launched three years ago. Kenya has successful implementation of the new dawn in terms of economic growth. already embarked on the construction of Community’s 10-year investment Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda have all the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) that strategy for key infrastructure projects.

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World Bank Pledges $1.2 Billion for EAC Infrastructure By Simon Peter Owaka

Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto (third left) with other EAC leaders with the 10-year infrastructure investment strategy for priority regional projects. They are from left Prosper Bazombaza (Burundi’s First Vice President), Tanzanian VP Mohammed Bilala, Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi, Uganda’s Finance Minister Maria Kiwanuka and EAC Secretary General Dr Richard Sezibera.

he World Bank will provide $1.2 to better connect landlocked countries Tbillion (Sh108 billion) to boost the (Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda and South Mr. Dongier was speaking during the development of infrastructure and Sudan) to the Northern and Central 3rd EAC Heads of State Retreat on improve the competitiveness of the five corridors to improve these countries’ infrastructure in Nairobi on November East African Community (EAC) Partner access to the ports of Mombasa and 29, 2014. The retreat, which focused States. Dar-es-Salaam,” said the World Bank on policies and reforms necessary to official. strengthen regional integration through The global lender will also through its enhanced efficiency of infrastructure private sector arms – the International He said the bank was preparing investment and financing, was officially Finance Corporation (IFC) and Multilateral investments to revive the region’s and opened by Kenyan Deputy President Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) – inland waterways on Lakes Victoria and William Ruto. provide additional resources for regional Tanganyika and to enhance the capacity infrastructure through market-driven and efficiency of the two main EAC ports Participants included the representatives private sector financing and guarantees. on the Indian Ocean, Dar-es-Salaam and of the EAC Heads of State, ministers, Mombasa. chief executives of development banks The World Bank’s Country Director for and regional economic communities, Burundi, Tanzania and Uganda, Mr. “The World Bank Group’s investment high commissioners, ambassadors and Philippe Dongier, said the support was and support to reforms anticipate private sector leaders. additional to large ongoing individual the boom of extractives in the region country programmes. and will facilitate easier movement of Addressing the forum, IFC Director for people, goods and capital. The bank will Eastern and Southern Africa, Mr. Oumar “The financing will contribute to EAC continue to support the EAC’s efforts in Seydi, said the corporation would do states’ planned investments in the removing barriers to agriculture, trade more to support the development of next three to seven years… We are and selected services. This is expected ports, power, rail, transport and other partnering with EAC governments, other to deliver real benefits to farmers, key infrastructure projects in the EAC in development partners and the private traders, youth and women in the region,” the years ahead. sector to invest in regional infrastructure he said. and help deepen policy integration and “Working with private sector partners, reduction of barriers to trade,” said He disclosed that the Bank was already IFC is already investing more than Sh90 Dongier. supporting the EAC’s regional integration billion ($1.0 billion) annually in sub- agenda with investments of $2.3 million in Saharan African infrastructure to spur The Mombasa port is one among three 17 regional projects in priority sectors. These economic growth and improve living ports in East Africa earmarked for further include roads, railways, energy, information standards,” said Mr Seydi. investment by the bank to enhance and communications technologies, capacity and efficiency. finance, trade, health, agriculture, livestock IFC presently has a portfolio of over “We will invest in specific transport links development and health. $1 billion in EAC countries. Project

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 5 JUMUIYA NEWS support sectors include agribusiness, finance, infrastructure, manufacturing, services, and telecommunications. IFC’s infrastructure portfolio in East Africa includes investments in Kenya Power and Lighting, Thika Power and Gulf Power in Kenya; and the Bujagali Hydropower Project and Umeme in Uganda.

Speaking when he opened the meeting, Deputy President Ruto urged EAC Partner States to shun “petty jealousies” among themselves and instead appreciate the benefits to full integration.

Ruto said mega projects across national borders within the EAC was the way to go. The DP cautioned against “fragmented markets” saying they would not take any country anywhere.

The DP said Africa was a continent on the necessary infrastructure that will facilitate “We must also remain focused on where rise pointing out that it had the highest the kind of growth that we require. we want to take our region beyond GDP growth rate of 5%, and challenged the infrastructure. We need to take our bureaucrats to help African countries tap We must put in place infrastructure that countries to the next level through agro- these benefits. goes beyond our national borders,” said processing, manufacturing and industry Ruto. which will create jobs,” said the DP. “We have the youngest population the world over and highest returns on He said EAC countries should generate investment. How do we position the sufficient energy to power the engines of The financing will contribute to EAC states’ planned investments continent to benefit from this narrative? growth in addition to the construction of in the next three to seven years We therefore need to put in place the roads, railways and ports.

AfDB Loans Kenya Shs12b for Rural Electrification

enya has received Sh12 billion create more jobs and reduce the use of from the African Development kerosene and firewood which are not Bank to boost its Rural environmentally friendly,” said Rotich. KElectrification Programme. The government will top up the figure by The money will finance the last mile Sh1.2 billion bringing the total cost to electricity connectivity. Sh13.4 billion when the project starts in March 2015. The loan agreement was signed by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Connectivity to commercial users Henry Rotich and AfDB Regional in rural areas will also create more Director Gabriel Negatu at State House, jobs and reduce the use of kerosene and firewood which are not Nairobi on December 18, 2014. environmentally friendly,”

Mr Rotich said the 12,000 metres of low voltage distribution lines will be The AfDB had earlier pledged to constructed in last mile electricity finance the Kenya-Tanzania power connectivity as well as install equipment interconnectivity to improve electricity that will connect electricity to a supply in the two countries by creating minimum of 284,200 homes and 30,000 an East African Power Pool. commercial consumers. Mr. Negatu said the last mile funding is “An additional 1.2 million people will in line with one of the two pillars of the access electricity. Connectivity to bank’s country strategy paper for Kenya commercial users in rural areas will also which focuses on infrastructure.

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Deputy President William Ruto arriving at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre for the 3rd EAC Heads of State Infrastructure Retreat. With him are EAC Secretary General Richard Sezibera and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for East African Affairs, Mrs Phyllis Kandie. EAC Council of Ministers told to Mobilize $100B for Infrastructure Projects By Simon Peter Owaka

The East Community (EAC) Heads Prosper Bazombaka, First Vice President World Bank and other development of State Summit has directed the of Burundi; Mr Anastase Murekezi, partners. Community’s Council of Ministers to Prime Minister of Rwanda, and; Ms The Heads of State and Government help mobilize $100 billion dollars for the Maria Kiwanuka, Uganda’s Minister for expressed their appreciation for a development of infrastructure projects Finance and Planning, who represented commitment by the World Bank over the next 10 years. President Yoweri Museveni. to provide $1.2 billion for regional integration in the EAC. The Summit said the Council could The Council was further directed to mobilize the required resources by expedite the implementation of the They particularly welcomed the holding annual briefing roundtables for Framework for Harmonized EAC international lender’s commitments to: infrastructure investors and financiers Roaming Charges, including the in addition to highlighting investment removal of surcharges for international i. help countries to prepare for the opportunities. telecommunications traffic originating investments and policies needed to and terminating within the EAC by July benefit from the nascent extractives The Summit at the same time directed 15th, 2015. industries in the region; the Council to engage bilateral and ii. invest in regional intermodal multilateral development partners The Summit underscored its transport infrastructure including to mobilize technical and financial commitment to jointly and severally reviving inland waterway transport support for project preparations and lead in the mobilization of resources on lakes Victoria and Tanganyika, implementation. to achieve the implementation of along with associated road and rail infrastructure projects and programmes, links, and; In a communiqué issued after the and directed the Ministers of iii. support implementation of the 3rd EAC Heads of State Retreat Infrastructure and Finance to coordinate Common Market Protocol, on Infrastructure Development and efforts in this regard. specifically by helping to remove Financing held at the Kenyatta The Summit further endorsed the barriers to agriculture, trade and International Convention Centre, Nairobi proposed 10-year investment strategy selected services. on November 29th, 2014, the Summit for priority regional projects and directed instructed the Council to fast-track the the Council to mobilize resources for its They thanked the other development development of requisite capacities to implementation and report progress at partners, specifically NEPAD, the support the implementation of the priority the 4th Retreat of the Heads of State. European Union, China, US, Japan infrastructure projects and programmes. and Trade Mark East Africa for their They further endorsed the report on continued support to EAC projects The Summit was chaired by Kenya’s intermodal transport strategy and and programmes, and urged them to Deputy President William Ruto and directed the EAC Secretariat and Partner consider supporting the priority projects attended by Dr Mohammed Gharib States to collaborate in expediting its contained in the 10-year investment Bilala, Vice President of Tanzania; Mr implementation in consultation with the strategy.

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 7 JUMUIYA NEWS

Maasai dancers entertain guests at the Gikondo Expo Grounds during 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition held in Kigali.

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Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 9 JUMUIYA NEWS

having an alternative tax free terms as declaration, freight and insurance low income nations that have unfettered documents and packing list among access to the European markets. others.

Poor countries have tax free access to “In order to benefit from EU preferential European markets under the “everything duty rates, Kenyan products must be but arms” clause that operates outside accompanied by a document proving the EPAs regime. their origin,” the EU said, adding that the document would have to be presented Kenya’s flower industry stood to lose at the border for customs clearance. the most under the EU’s new tax regime that kicked during the peak season “As of October 1, 2014 the current that started in October 2014. Kenyan ‘EUR1’ form for proving origin must be Boost for exporters were expected to lose Sh100 replaced by the certificate- GSP Form million every week in taxes paid to A,” the EU said, sending exporters into Kenyan access EU markets beginning October 1. panic.

Exporters as The taxes were ultimately expected to Kenya and other EAC countries have EAC Signs New make Kenyan goods more expensive, been using a special clearance form reduce on sales volumes and ultimately known as Euro 1 (EUR1) to access Trade Deal cut foreign exchange inflows. European markets. The form is issued with EU for goods originating from all Africa, Kenyan exports to the EU have since Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries January 1, 2008 enjoyed preferential, (under a preferential trade arrangement) duty free access to European markets destined for the EU market. enyan exporters eyeing European under special arrangements. From markets on October 14, 2014 got October 1, 2014 the arrangements were The five EAC member states signed an Krelief from a looming tax burden only to be reserved for countries that had interim trade deal with Europe in 2007 after the government signed a new concluded negotiating new EPAs with guaranteeing duty and quota-free access Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) the EU. to EU market. This was upon expiry of with Brussels. the non-reciprocal trading arrangement “From October 1, 2014 most Kenyan based on a WTO waiver granted in 2001. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and agricultural exports will be subject to EU International Trade on that date GSP tariffs. Some goods will still benefit But years later, the member states were announced that the East African from a zero per cent tariff-line, such as yet to agree on a new trade platform Community Partner States had finally coffee beans, tea and carnations. The breaching several self-set deadlines to signed an agreement with the European duties will still be lower than normal conclude the negotiations. Signing of the Union, two weeks after the initial EU tariffs on goods from non-GSP EPA deal was partly delayed because deadline lapsed. countries,” the EU said in a statement on Partner States wanted a provision for September 22. special export taxes to protect certain “The three areas that remained sectors they consider sensitive and to outstanding namely: export taxes, export Besides the taxes, Kenyan exporters discourage export of raw materials to subsidies and relationship between to the EU were to face stringent Europe in favour of value addition by Cotonou agreement and EPAs were all measures meant to ensure only products local industries. agreed upon in favour of Kenya,” the originating from the region benefit from ministry said in a statement, adding that the preferential terms. Soon after reaching Tuesday’s successful conclusion of the negotiations agreement, Principal Secretary Karanja would enable Kenya to continue enjoying Kibicho, who was part of the Kenyan duty free and quota free access to the Kenyan exports to government delegation to Belgium, European markets. the EU have since took to Twitter to announce the deal. Dr Kibicho was accompanied by his The EU on October 1 entered goods January 1, 2008 East African Affairs counterpart John (including fresh produce and cut flowers) enjoyed preferential, Konchellah. from EAC Partner States into a higher duty free access to tax bracket, having failed to agree on a “Finally, we have a deal. Readying my new trade deal with the region after more European markets pen for the initialing of the EAC-EU EPA than a decade of negotiations. under special agreement,” said Mr Kibicho. The PS arrangements. thanked Kenyans for their patience and Failure to sign a new trade agreement left EAC member states for their support. Kenya, which recently entered the lower middle income bracket, as the only EAC In addition to the certificate of origin, country that would shoulder the new exporters are also required to submit tax burden – its partners in the region a commercial invoice, customs value

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East African Affairs Principal Secretary John Konchellah speaks when he officially closed a workshop on Maritime Security and sea transport at a Mombasa hotel. He is flanked by the Ag. Director of Productive Services, Julius Mwabu (seated right) and Senior Assistant Director for Regional Integration, Charles Ngunjiri. Guard Maritime Sector Against Saboteurs – PS Konchellah - By Michael Okidi

xperts and other stakeholders in the coming up with proposals and workable experiences in the management of the Emaritime and ocean management solutions to ocean and maritime various facets of the maritime sector to sector have been urged to seek ways management challenges if the region’s ensure that maritime transport and trade of finding implementable solutions sea waters are to be utilized for the good operate smoothly for the benefit of the to challenges that face businesses of the citizens. people of East Africa. associated with maritime transport and resources within the East African region. He noted that the sea is an important The Acting Director of Productive resource to mankind, being the source and Services, Julius Mwabu, who According to the Principal Secretary fish, minerals, transport and a valued accompanied the PS, reiterated the in Charge of East African Affairs, scene for recreation, and so must be importance of constant consultations on John Konchellah, maritime transport jealously guarded against deliberate matters of marine security and ocean and ocean management form an sabotage by criminals. management, saying prompt sharing integral part of East African import and of information and joint strategies were export business, and so need to be “As you are all aware, the Port of key to ensuring effective and profitable safeguarded against inherent dangers Mombasa is the Gateway to East and management of the maritime sector. like environmental pollution, piracy and Central Africa and its operation affects other vices. the volume of trade within the region. The three-day workshop, whose overall Speaking at Mombasa’s Whitesands Effective management of the Maritime objective was to widen and deepen Hotel when he closed a workshop on security and Ocean governance would the EAC Integration in the maritime Stakeholders’ Engagement on Maritime directly translate into an improved sector, was specifically meant to share Security and Ocean Governance, business environment in the EAC region experiences and identify challenges in Konchellah noted that Maritime security thus uplifting the standard of living of our the maritime sector that hinder trade is today a global concern owing to people” the PS told the participants. within the EAC region, and propose increased incidences of insecurity, solutions and strategies for combating terrorism, piracy, drugs and human The PS further reiterated that regular them. trafficking, disasters and environmental engagements and sharing of experiences It brought together representatives challenges that affect the good order at and lessons between stakeholders in of key actors and stakeholders in sea. the Maritime sector is key to finding the maritime sector, among them, implementable solutions to challenges Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports He told the participants, who included that face businesses associated with Authority, Kenya Marine Police Unit, port users, transporters, clearing and maritime transport and resources within Fisheries, ,Immigration, Kenya Shippers forwarding agents, security agencies and the EAC region. Council, National Disaster Operational representatives of line ministries that as Center, among others. key stakeholders in the maritime sector, Mr Konchellah urged the participants to that they had a massive responsibility of always jointly share their expertise and

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KAM CEO Betty Maina (right) with East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism CS Phyllis Kandie during the breakfast meeting. Domesticate Common Market Provisions in National Laws – KAM CEO By Simon Peter Owaka

ast African Community Partner Maina was speaking during a media cooperation in the infrastructure EStates have been asked to breakfast meeting organised by the sectors and financial services.” domesticate the provisions of the State Department of East African Common Market Protocol (CMP) in Affairs at a Nairobi hotel. The chief The CEO said harmonised tax policies their national laws. guest at the breakfast meeting was would promote investment and called the Cabinet Secretary for East African for a strong regional law and policies The Chief Executive Officer of the Affairs, Commerce and Tourism, Mrs governing trade in services. Kenya Association of Manufacturers Phyllis Kandie. It was also addressed (KAM), Ms Betty Maina, further by East African Affairs Principal On the Customs Union which was recommended that the CMP and its Secretary John Konchellah. signed in 2005 but became fully annexes should be implemented as per fledged on January 1, 2010, Ms Maina the agreed implementation schedule The KAM CEO also singled out as said the protocol had come with many to fast-track the full benefits of the positive developments reduced benefits particularly the leveling of the rights and freedoms stipulated in the roadblocks and the implementation of playing field due to implementation protocol. the One Stop Border Posts concept. of CET against imports from third countries. Ms Maina further urged the Partner The Common Market Protocol was States to address Common External signed on November 20th, 2009 and “The Customs Union Protocol also Tariff (CET) and internal tariff elimination came into force on July 1st, 2010. It increased utilization of production issues as a matter of urgency. provides for free movement of persons, capacity, increased market goods, services, labour and capital as opportunities in the EAC in addition Maina hailed ongoing initiatives to well as the rights of establishment and to nurturing competitiveness due to make it easier to travel within the EAC residence. economies of scale and production region, adding that the introduction efficiency,” she said. of machine-readable national identity Ms Maina cited some of the challenges cards should be expedited by to the right of establishment in the Other benefits of the protocol were governments in the region. protocol as: the requirement of work enhancement of domestic and cross- permits; need for recognition of border investments, uniform application She said that the CMP had brought qualifications for professional bodies to of the Customs Management Act, about several benefits for the business practise, and; cumbersome legal and preferential tariffs for goods produced community including reduction in administrative frameworks imposed by in East Africa so long as they met bureaucracy and red tape. local authorities. the rules of origin, and adoption of harmonised commodity description of “There has been increased intra-EAC The free movement of services goods and coding systems for goods. trade now estimated at about 18%. provides for the opening up of seven There has also been harmonization of sectors namely: professional and KAM is the representative organization the standards in the EAC with mutual business, communications, distribution, for manufacturing value-added recognition of each Partner State’s education services, financial services, industries in Kenya. Established in standardization marks,” said Maina. tourism, travel related services and 1959 as a private sector body, KAM transport. has evolved into a dynamic, vibrant, “We have also witnessed easier credible and respected business travel arrangements within the EAC, “Some of the benefits of the free association that unites industrialists improved transit ICT systems e.g. movement of services if implemented and offers a common voice for the Single Customs Territory, Single would be lower prices, improved businesses. KAM provides an essential Window System, easier clearance and quality and wider consumer choices, link for co-operation, dialogue and release of goods, and improvement of while financial services will benefit other understanding with the Government by roads, railways and ports,” she added. sectors like agriculture, distribution representing the views and concerns of and tourism. It will also enhance its members to the relevant authorities.

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mobilize resources to develop and modernize the necessary enabling infrastructures; especially border markets, to enable border communities take advantage of the liberalized Intra- EAC trade.

He said that the National Government had already taken the first initiative of modernizing the major border points by constructing One Stop Bordet Post (OSBPs) facilities in liaison with other EAC Partner States to facilitate cost- effective, non-cumbersome cross-border movement of goods and persons.

The concept of OSBP envisages a scenario where all exit and entry formalities are handled at one location - in the country of destination. It is expected that this initiative will save time and drastically cut cross-border trade Principal Secretary for East African Affairs, John Konchellah fields questions from the costs, besides easing and facilitating press after opening a sensitization forum for border county officials at a Mombasa hotel. cross border social interactions.

The PS pointed out that as counties Counties asked to Enact craft legislations, they must bear in mind Kenya’s commitment and contribution to Integration Friendly Laws the EAC integration, and avoid clauses By Michael Okidi and pronouncements that may be at variance with Kenya’s policy on regional integration, thereby undermining what ounties bordering East African investments and social interaction must the regional bloc has achieved over the CCommunity (EAC) Partner States be harmonized as a safeguard against years. have been advised to harmonize rules any clauses that may undermine the and regulations governing trade and integration agenda. He reiterated that continued interactions movement of persons to ensure they between the State Department of East operate in tandem with procedures Konchellah insisted that National and African Affairs and border counties that promote the spirit of East African County governments have to establish was unavoidable, and pledged his integration. mutually beneficial strategies that will commitment to future similar forums in attract cross-border investments, which issues touching on cross border Principal Secretary in charge of East promote intra-EAC trade and movement trade, challenges and opportunities African Affairs, John Konchellah further and contribute a stable foundation on will be discussed and updated for the wants legislative assemblies of such which the integration process shall mutual benefit of Kenyans and other East border counties to enact laws that continue to grow. African citizens. mutually relate with the EAC Treaty, and He assured the County Governments promote cross border trade, movement that the National Government is fully At the same time, the PS noted that the and interactions. committed to build, nurture and enhance challenge of Non Tariff barriers (NTBs) cooperative linkages and to seek that hinder smooth cross border trade Speaking at a Mombasa hotel where he synergy with County Governments to was a recurring stumbling block to the addressed Members of County Executive enhance the trickle-down effects of EAC integration process, and asked Committees, Members of County regional integration to the people at the County administrations to identify and Assemblies and County Commissioners grassroots. eliminate most of these barriers. from Kajiado, Taita Taveta, Kwale and Mombasa, Konchellah noted that the Konchellah further emphasized the “I am happy to note that you have counties are significant stakeholders strategic importance of sea-front and committed to work with this State in the integration process, and that border Counties in regional integration, Department to combat and eliminate Kenya cannot participate fully in the stating that these counties serve as the NTBs which impede free movement of EAC integration without full support from gateways to Kenya, and must therefore goods, services and persons and has border and sea-font counties. adequately benefit from cross border serious cost implications to regional trade and other lawful transactions taking trade” the PS said, urging the County He emphasized that for benefits of place at the borders. governments to appoint focal point the EAC integration to trickle down persons who will work closely with the to the ordinary citizens, rules and However, he pointed out that t SDEAA to further the integration agenda. regulations governing cross border trade, his can only happen if these counties

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 13 JUMUIYA NEWS

EA Monetary Union to have Safeguards against Possible Financial Crises By Simon Peter Owaka

The proposed East African Monetary compliance,” said Prof Ndungu. currency would lead to increased trade Union (EAMU) will have in-built He said the protocol which has so far between Kenya and the other EAC safeguards against financial crises been ratified by four EAC Partner States, Partner States. similar to the one currently ravaging the namely Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and European Union. Tanzania would, among other things, “Uniform external current and capital promote harmonius, balanced and account regimes will lead to increased Central Bank of Kenya Governor, sustainable economic development. intra-regional financial flows and Professor Njuguna Ndungu, said investment, business opportunities the EAMU Protocol calls for the “It is expected that the protocol will and direct foreign investment. In establishment of an institution lead to sustainable and non-inflationary terms of financial development, the responsible for surveillance, compliance economic growth, facilitate intra- monetary union will speed up financial and enforcement which is expected to regional economic and financial system development and integration in the EAC.” be in place by 2018. integration in addition to the efficient allocation of resources for economic He said there would also be a Prof Ndungu said the Surveillance, development,” said the CBK Governor. harmonised and regulatory framework Compliance and Enforcement in the EAC which would in turn lead to a Commission would be responsible for Prof Ndungu who was speaking to stable financial system and reduced risk designing a framework for monitoring Jumuiya News during an interview of financial contagion, adding that the compliance to macro-economic in his office, said the EAMU Protocol monetary union would raise the region’s convergence; ensuring Partner States would have many benefits for the East clout vis-à-vis international financial adhere to and maintain macro-economic African economy. “There will certainly institutions. convergence, and; the establishment be reduction in costs due to reduced “EAC Partner States will enjoy increased and operationalization of the East African exchange rate risks, integrated EAC bargaining position in international Community stabilization facility. payment system, greater competition institutions. For instance, voting rights and economies of scale,” he said. on IMF decisions are largely based on “We believe the institution will enable quotas. EAC will have enhanced quota us avoid the Euro-style problems. The The CBK Governor said the protocol allocations and therefore increased EU entered into a monetary union would enhance trade within the regional bargaining power in the IMF decision- without observing critical convergence market which has a combined GDP of making process.” criteria and an enforcement for non- US$100 billion, adding that a common Prof Ndungu disclosed that apart from

14 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

Professor Ndungu.

the institution for surveillance, compliance be to harmonize and oversee activities He mentioned some of the challenges and enforcement, various institutions will of insurance companies, pension funds, which may arise during and after the be put in place to oversee implementation Saccos and capital markets within the implementation of the EAMU Protocol as: of the protocol and the eventual realisation Union. the loss of sovereignty; vulnerability to of a single regional currency. external shocks; overlapping membership Asked whether the 10-year timeframe was by some Partner States to various regional “The protocol calls for the establishment adequate for the attainment of a single economic blocs, and; the discovery of of the East African Central Bank (EACB) regional currency, Prof Ndungu said the natural resources such as oil and natural by 2024. Prior to this, a number of other period set was enough, pointing out that gas in some Partner States which could institutions are proposed which would the Protocol has a clear roadmap towards create imbalances within the union. serve as building blocks to the EACB,” he this objective. said. In his view, the remedies to some of these “The protocol sets out a number of pre- challenges include: The East African Monetary Institute requisites before countries can enter into (EAMI) to be in place by 2015 will be the the single currency area, one of them I. Building of resilience and managing precursor to the EACB. EAMI will work being that at least three countries must economic shocks – the Protocol closely with other institutions and the meet and sustain the macroeconomic calls for a mechanism for identifying, Partner States in the preparatory work convergence criteria for three consecutive monitoring and mitigating any towards the attainment of the single years.” economic risks in a Partner State; currency area. II. Development of measures to support On what the roles of the national central a Partner State that experiences “The EAMI will specifically oversee the: banks will be after the establishment of macroeconomic or structural harmonization of policies, standards and a single currency, the CBK Governor imbalance, and; laws in the Community; integration of said there would be a system of central III. Ongoing efforts to establish a Grand systems and adoption of common rules banks in which the EACB will have the Free Trade Area bringing together and principles; harmonization of relevant responsibility of formulating monetary EAC, COMESA and Southern national laws and frameworks; attainment and exchange rate policies and issuing African Development Community will of the macroeconomic convergence currency while the national central banks resolve the problem of overlapping criteria, and; designing of common will have the responsibility of implementing memberships. exchange rate mechanism.” these policies and overseeing the banking system stability. Another institution that will be responsible The central banks will thus be the for financial services is expected to be implementing arm of the EACB. established by 2018. Its mandate will

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 15 JUMUIYA NEWS

Burundian traditional dancers entertain showgoers during the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition in Kigali.

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Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 17 JUMUIYA NEWS

A Maasai moran from Kenya test drives a vehicle assembled by the EMVTC School, Kigali during the EAC Jua Kali Exhibition held in Kigali. EAC Micro and Small Enterprise Exhibition to be Rebranded By Simon Peter Owaka

he East African Community is in employment creation, and is providing He noted that the exhibition had the process of commissioning a employment to a large part of the continued to register phenomenal Tstudy to guide the rebranding of population in both the rural and urban growth due to support by Partner State the annual EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi areas,” he said, adding that besides governments and the EAC Council of Exhibition, creating employment and generating Ministers. EAC Director General (DG) for Customs wealth, the sector also utilizes materials and Trade, Mr. Peter Kiguta, said the that are locally available. “During the first exhibition in 1999, rebranding of the exhibition would enable the Heads of State decided that the it to continue playing its rightful role in The DG said the exhibition dovetails into hosting country shall be the Patron and the process of regional integration and the broader EAC policy of encouraging grace the official opening ceremony. economic development. people’s participation in the regional This was an effort to provide maximum integration process and the need to government recognition and support to Kiguta said the need to rebrand is promote indigenous enterprise and the SME sector.” out of the consideration that the EAC capacity for sustainable integration and region has made significant strides in economic development. Kiguta said that the EAC Council of the regional integration process notably Ministers had directed that Customs the establishment of a Single Customs He observed that since the first and other government agencies involved Territory and the Common Market. Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi exhibition, the in clearance of exhibits and exhibitors “EAC intra-regional trade has more event continues to register a lot of should put into place the necessary than tripled from US$1.6 billion in 2004 improvement annually in terms of the administrative mechanisms to ease to US$5.8 billion in 2013,” adding that number of exhibitions held, the variety movement of people and exhibits in and even small economies like Rwanda had and quality of goods exhibited, and the out of the host country. benefited. level of innovation. He said Partner States have also been providing budgetary resources for “In 2013, Rwanda’s exports to the EAC “Other areas where improvement procurement of space for the exhibition Partner States continued to rise. In 2013, continues to be recorded is in the social and allowing free entry to the public. Rwanda’s exports across EAC increased interaction between exhibitors and Speaking at the function, Rwanda’s by 2.9% from $312.4 million in 2012 to their networking with local business Minister for Trade and Industry Francois $380 million in 2013,” said Kiguta. communities. While friendships have Kanimba disclosed that 1,000 exhibitors been evolving among the exhibitors and were participating in the 15th Jua Kali The DG was speaking during the official between them and the local people, expo exhibiting a variety of hand-made opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu some exhibitors have been securing products. Kazi Exhibition at the Gikondo Expo long term business deals with the local Grounds in Kigali, Rwanda. business community.” Kanimba said the exhibition was The DG noted that the regional exhibition expected to increase business has become a very important medium He said that on the cultural front, the transactions in addition to providing a for mobilization of the small and micro- exhibition has provided opportunities for platform for industrial take-off, leading to enterprise sector, which is becoming a East Africans from different countries to self-sufficiency in industrial products and strong force for national development in interact and appreciate other peoples’ services as well as facilitating sustainable the region. cultures, thereby breaking cultural economic growth and a more integrated barriers and promoting the spirit of East EAC by establishing cooperation “Indeed, the SME sector has become Africanism. programmes. the sector of last resort in terms of

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Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi addressing delegates when he officially opened the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition on behalf of President Paul Kagame. Rwandan PM urges Partner States to Support MSEs By Simon Peter Owaka

ast African Community (EAC) designing appropriate programmes to participants in 2013. Partner States have been called improve their technical and managerial Eupon to support local micro and skills. The theme of last year’s exhibition small enterprises (MSEs) by among other was “Developing the Micro and Small things giving them access to affordable “Small enterprise competitiveness is a Enterprises Sector for Sustainable credit facilities and upgrading of skills. key factor in determining a country’s Regional Integration and Economic overall competitiveness and its ability Growth.” Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase to respond to regional and international Murekezi said the developed nations and market demands.” Said the PM. The PM said the overarching objective newly industrialized economies started of the exhibition was to open up new off by developing their micro and small He observed that the EAC with a market frontiers for EAC products, enterprises. population of over 140 million people bridge the technological gaps between can consume all products that are artisans and innovators, and become Murekezi said EAC Partner States produced in the region, provided an avenue for integrating artisans’ must learn from the experience of the the products adhere to international communities throughout the region. advanced economies and apply the standards and are properly marketed. “In the EAC, most of our economies are lessons in their countries. still heavily dependent on agricultural Murekezi said adherence to international activities as a source of income and “To achieve it, EAC countries should standards and effective marketing our production capacity is mainly reliant quickly address key challenges that would enable locally produced goods to on seasons and weather changes. hamper the development of small compete with imported products. Unemployment and underemployment enterprises such as human capacity, are prevalent among our youth and infrastructure, technology and limited “I would like to advise you to be more women,” he said, adding that these and access to finance,” said Murekezi. creative, innovative and adjust with other economic challenges called for technological changes; otherwise, you economic diversification and relentless “It is indeed a good practice to may remain informal for another 10 years efforts to create off-farm jobs. support small businesses to enable before graduating to medium and large them become more productive and enterprises.” The PM advised CISO to set goals competitive on the regional level and and strategies that will enable the beyond. To get this competitive edge, PM Murekezi was officially opening exhibitors to organize the annual event EAC Governments must invest in human the 15th EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi by themselves with minimum support capital, and empower small enterprises,” Exhibition at the Gikondo Expo Grounds from respective governments and said the PM. in Kigali in December, 2014. The development partners. EAC Confederation of Informal Sector The PM urged EAC governments Organizations (CISO) has successfully “In this way, you will be inspiring your to invest in creating conducive organized the exhibition on a rotational members to graduate to formal and environments for the growth of small basis in the EAC Partner States with mature enterprises.” businesses by understanding the unique the support of host countries starting challenges they face in each country and with 134 participants in 1999 and 630

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 19 JUMUIYA NEWS

uptake and usage of the system. The more specific primary role of each EAC Central Bank in this regard shall be:

• to provide infrastructure • to provide oversight of the system • To develop the legal framework and operating rules

EAPS utilization since inception In Kenya, a total of 20 commercial banks have transmitted transactions through EAPS to commercial banks in Uganda and Tanzania, most of them being Kenyan commercial banks with a regional presence, a good achievement given the relatively short time that the system has been in place. Although The East African Payments System: the utilization of EAPS is increasing, the number of transactions is still Implications for Regional Integration generally low, possibly due to the lack By Samson Burgei of awareness by the general public regarding its existence and potential he East African Payments System Features of EAPS benefits. In this regard, the respective (EAPS) was officially launched on EAPS is the fastest and most efficient EAC Central Banks will be rolling out May 16, 2014 in Nairobi by Central way to make payments in the East elaborate publicity campaigns aimed at T promoting EAPS among EAC citizens. Bank Governors from the five East Africa. It uses existing regional RTGS African Community (EAC) Partner States. infrastructure to achieve efficient and safe cross border transfer of monetary Benefits of EAPS EAPS is an initiative by EAC Central values. Participants in the system shall With respect to regional trade, the Banks and the EAC Secretariat, working credit customer accounts within two System is expected to promote, facilitate closely with commercial banks in the hours of receiving a SWIFT credit entry and support trade within the region. region. The system will be a boon to notification on their settlement account EAPS has many benefits which include: regional trade in that it will promote, facil- at the Central Bank. All commercial itate and support trade within the region. banks within the EAC region are • Real time transfer of funds across Prior to being launched, the EAPS Sys- expected to operate EAPS Accounts EAC borders; EAPS will enable the tem had been in operation starting No- with their respective Central Banks. The public to pay as well as receive vember 25, 2013 when it first went live. Central Banks also open accounts in payments on real time basis using each other’s Central Banks as they act the currencies of EAC Partner What is EAPS? as participants in their RTGS systems States. Participating commercial EAPS is a cross border payment system representing the individual commercial banks shall credit customer that Integrates the respective Real Time banks in their countries and carrying accounts within two hours of Gross Settlement (RTGS) Systems of out transactions on their behalf. It is receiving a SWIFT credit entry Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Rwanda the responsibility of a commercial bank notification on their settlement and Burundi are expected to join at a to ensure that all its accounts in these account at the Central Bank thereby later date. It utilizes the internationally currencies have been pre-funded before ensuring same day settlement of recognized SWIFT messaging network sending payments. transactions. for safe and secure delivery of payment • Transfer of large value payments and settlement messages. It is part of For example, when a customer in in the region: although the EAPS modernization efforts to enhance cross country A gives his/her bank payment system is primarily for large value border payments system across the instructions, a message is sent to the transactions and time critical region. As a multi-currency system, it central bank of country A. That message payments, there is no minimum or enables the public to pay as well as is then transmitted through SWIFT to the upper ceiling for EAPS transactions. receive payments on real time basis central bank of the country where the • Enhanced safety through use of in the currencies of EAC member payment is destined, say country B. At the SWIFT infrastructure. EAPS countries, namely: Kenya Shilling that point, it is transformed and settled in uses the recognized SWIFT (KES), Uganda Shilling (UGX), Tanzania the respective commercial bank account infrastructure which provides a Shilling (TZS), Rwandese Franc (RWF) through a cross border module. network that enables financial and Burundi Franc (BIF). It sends and institutions worldwide to send receives cross border payments in the Role of Central Banks in EAPS and receive information about region’s currencies from any of the The EAPS is the result of collaboration financial transactions in a commercial banks in the five East African between East African Central Banks secure, standardized and reliable countries on a Real Time basis. under the auspices of the Monetary environment. Affairs Committee (MAC) of the EAC. The Central Banks are at the forefront as the Mr Burgei is the Communications main drivers supporting the successful Manager, Central Bank of Kenya.

20 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

Aflatoxins Major Threat to Food Security in the EAC

By Irene Musebe

The realization of the Millennium Development Goal of reducing by half the number of people suffering Aflatoxins contamination is not adequately and from hunger by the year 2015 is being appropriately controlled or regulated within the East threatened by pests and disease African Community region as most foodstuffs are incidence to crop and animal food produced and consumed locally without or just limited sources in Kenya. Aflatoxin is a major testing by the relevant regulatory authorities. problem as it attacks both crops and animal food sources posing adverse animal and human health. it is called ochratoxin. Aflatoxin is known health and economic effects along the to persist in the grains eaten by livestock food production and supply value chain. Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring virus and get to the human body through the In particular, aflatoxins undermine efforts that is produced mainly by two types of consumption of milk and meat. to improve nutrition, enhance agricultural fungi, namely the Aspergillus flavus and production and minimize economic Aspergillus parastica whose spore can 3.1 Food consumption and total gains from agriculture, especially for survive in the soil for a long time. aflatoxins contamination levels for maize small-scale farmers. grain, groundnuts, cassava chips, EAC efforts to curb aflatoxin sorghum grains, and cow’s milk in the Aflatoxins contamination is not problems EAC countries adequately and appropriately controlled or regulated within the East African The Maximum limits (MLs) for aflatoxins Community region as most foodstuffs The EAC Secretariat with aid from USAID in foods are regulated to promote are produced and consumed locally has developed a Regional Project on public health, and at the same time without or just limited testing by the Aflatoxins Control and Improved Nutrition promote fair trade. Although most relevant regulatory authorities. As a as part of the overall implementation countries formulate their own MLs, result, millions of people living in East of the EAC Food Security Action Plan many of them rely on MLs formulated Africa consume high, unsafe levels of 2011-2015 as approved by the 9th Extra by regional or international bodies. aflatoxin in their diets on a daily basis. Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State At the international level, the Codex The majority of Kenyans are not aware held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in April Alimentarius Commission (Codex) is the of the hazards caused by presence 2011. body responsible for formulating MLs of aflatoxins in the food stuffs they for contaminants such as aflatoxins in consume. To make matters worse The objectives of the project are: foods. At Codex level, an ML of 15 µg/kg aflatoxins cannot be destroyed through is set for total aflatoxins (sum of AFB1, any of the known food processing • To develop EAC regional policy on AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2) in peanuts, methods. It can only get denatured at prevention and control of aflatoxins Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pistachios and very high temperatures of beyond 2,000 • To establish the foundation for a almonds for further processing; an ML degrees Celsius. Regional Bio-control Programme in the EAC of 10 µg/kg is also set for ready-to- eat Brazil nuts, dried figs, hazelnuts, There is need for efficient monitoring, • To build capacity on aflatoxin pistachios and almonds. Similarly, a surveillance and cost-effective measures control and prevention in the region level of 0.5µg/kg is set for Aflatoxin M1 for control and prevention of aflatoxins in milk. contamination in food and feed products Aflatoxin severity in EAC region along the crops and animals value However, for aflatoxins in main staples chains in the region and Kenya in In the EAC region, aflatoxin infects such as maize and rice, Codex has not particular. maize, ground nuts, coffee, rice, cassava, simsim and cotton which been able to formulate an internationally acceptable ML. The failure to set an A multi-sectoral approach is crucial to are the main sources of food in many international ML is attributable to the prevent and control aflatoxin at various households. Aflatoxin appears in different huge differences in food consumption levels including pre- and post-harvest crops as different mutant strains and is patterns among nations and in aflatoxin stages of crops in order to increase food given different name. For example, in contamination in food produced from security and ensure food safety for both maize it known as aflatoxin but in coffee

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 21 JUMUIYA NEWS different agro-ecological regions of the world. Due to the absence of consensus Aflatoxins on aflatoxin MLs at Codex, countries and Food consumption contamination Country regions have formulated their own internal (g/person/day) (ng/g of food item MLs. The USA has a guideline level of consumed) 20µg/kg and the European Union, a more stringent ML of 4µg/kg for total aflatoxins, Maize grain in food. In developing countries, MLs for Kenya 400 131.7 total aflatoxins range from 10 to 20µg/kg, Uganda 69 9.7 with 10µg/kg being the most frequently Tanzania 405 49.7 regulated levels. Stringent MLs such as 4µg/kg for total aflatoxins set in the EU Groundnuts (peanuts) forces producers, traders and processors Burundi 12.5 in other countries to incur more operating Uganda 15.0 65 costs as they strive to meet them. Thus, Tanzania 25.1 there is need to establish an EAC regional Cassava chips ML in maize, for Kenya, this is critical since we trade a lot with other Partner States Uganda 0.5 and depend on maize as the staple food Tanzania 214 0.9 source. Sorghum Tanzania 40 3.0 Setting of MLs for aflatoxins in food for human consumption in the EAC region Milk began in the 1990s. To date, Kenya, Kenya 750ml 0.8 Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda use an Tanzania 750ml 0.9 ML of 5 ppb for aflatoxin B1 and 10 ppb for total aflatoxins in foods, especially cereals, but is this the best limit for Kenya? a) Mild levels of aflatoxin e) Trade Aflatoxin is known to exhibit accumulative traits in the human body system causing Low levels of aflatoxin in the human body Aflatoxin reduces trade in two ways; it varying degrees of disease impacts. The will cause immune suppression which reduces the total volumes and quality of same limits were recently adopted by the may cause stunted growth especially in the tradable commodities. EAC as harmonised MLs for the entire children. In mature humans, research region. Contrary to the MLs adoption, have linked immune-suppression to the Control of Aflatoxin enforcement of these standards in maize acceleration of other diseases like HIV grains, milled maize products, peanut AIDS and Tuberculosis. Aflatoxin is difficult to eliminate once the butter and groundnuts, wheat grains, food chain since it is difficult to destroy wheat flour and beans; and 0.05 ppb b) Liver Cirrhosis and cancer even at high temperatures. Thus, the for aflatoxin M1 in milk pose a different management of aflatoxin is best done at challenge. Aflatoxin is strongly linked to causing farm level by avoiding its contamination to Hepatitis strains B and C. Studies in West the food source. In order to improve regulation of aflatoxins Africa indicate that high levels of aflatoxin in the EAC region, there is a need to exposure may cause cancer especially Scientists in Kenya have been working improve the existing regulations to create liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma). on alternative Fungi that can effectively more coordination among the multiple compete to replace the disease causing agencies, raise awareness among c) Acute and chronic Aspergillus flavus and A. parastica. This policy makers, actors in the food chain is known as Aflasafe which is still under and the consumers, on the effects of Higher levels of aflatoxin consumption laboratory observation and once released aflatoxins in health and trade and the have been known to cause death in would go a long way in controlling importance of regulating them. This will human beings. aflatoxins. enhance investment in aflatoxin mitigation measures, thus enabling establishment d) Reduced Human Labour and In the meantime, Kenyan consumers or strengthening of food safety risk productivity are advised against consuming foods assessment, coordination, inspection and that is discolored, infested by pests analysis systems. Aflatoxin reduces both total labour and processed foods from non-certified available in the job market and the sources. Ensure consumers should also Economic impacts of aflatoxin productivity of labour in the production look for the Kenya Bureau of Standard sector. certification mark in food products.

22 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

From left Mr. Maged Sabik, Egyptian Embassy, Mr. Titus Maluki, High Commission of Malaysia, Mr. James Mureu, Chairman EACCIA, Mr. Kiprono Kittony, National Chairman KNCCI.Mr. Kittony officially launched KHTF. Chamber Unveils Programme for the Youth

re you a young graduate from Time has therefore come for Kenya to Meanwhile, Egypt wants to diversify university or college? Time for give the youth space to participate in beverage import from Kenya with Ayou to transform your life has economic growth of their nation. Instead importation of coffee from the Kenyan come. The Kenya National chamber of taking our products to the auction, market. of commerce and Industry (KNCCI) is we should let the youth add value and organising a multi- million project that will market the name of Kenya internationally. The Second Commercial Secretary at see youth empowered to develop and One good way of doing that is to offer the Egyptian Embassy in Nairobi Mr. package products for export market right them skills in marketing and value Maged Sabik said that coffee has gained in their county. adding.” Speaking at the chambers market preference from Egyptians, national office at Ufanisi House on making it a viable export product in the The project, due to be rolled out this Nairobi’s Haile Sellasie Avenue, Onditi country. year, is to be implemented through the said he personally felt the youth KNCCI with the participation of the Co- continued to be provided with empty Apart from tea, tobacco and now coffee, operative and Industrialization ministries. promises that jobs would be created Egypt is also keen on increasing flower The project is intended to equip for them. “The song of job creation for imports from Kenya, which it has been graduates from universities and colleges the youth has been sung for far too re-exporting to Russia and Dubai. at the counties with skills and knowledge long. Years keep on passing without a Mr. Sabik said that his country had on product value addition. progressive leadership approach to tap shifted its trade policy focus from youth talents and energy that would be European Union, US and Arab Gulf Mr. Laban Onditi, the KNCCI National ideal for their self sustainability. It was markets to that of trading with Africa. Vice Chairman said that the focus of the about time that leaders in this country “We have realized the great potential programme is to offer youth lucrative made it actionable”. in this market and through the spirit of export opportunity and a platform to brotherhood we will increase our trade show case their skills in value addition of Youth can be quickly oriented to new volumes with Kenya for our mutual local products. skills and this project will give them benefit.” capability of enhancing market access Mr. Laban Onditi said under the for a country that has long relied on He was speaking during the signing of programme, the youth will be provided investors to boost its macro economy” an MOU between the Cairo Chamber with skills to enhance market access. Mr. Onditi said. For a long time, the of Commerce and the Kenya National “They will be inducted on packaging notion has been that investors will be Chamber of Commerce and Industry, products for export, financial the ones to create jobs to improve the Wednesday February 26. The MOU management and modalities of export lives of Kenyans. “But the reality is that focused on technology transfer between including regulations and taxation.” no investors will invest enough to cope the two countries to increase agriculture He added: “In the past, opportunity to with the demand for job creation for our production. make money has only be going to a few young Kenyans. It is therefore incumbent individuals. This has been particularly on us to start looking on how to increase During the meeting, Egypt pledged to the case where export of Kenya’s farm our export potential across the divide support the sugar sector to increase its products was done at the auction but of Kenyans and not just leave it in the cane output per acreage. This would be the farmer had very little to gain from the hands of a few individuals who are through organic technology. sales of such auctioned products. already rich,” Mr. Onditi said.

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 23 JUMUIYA NEWS

A Rwandan cultural troupe entertains guests at the official opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition in Kigali.

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Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 25 JUMUIYA NEWS

Industrialization Principal Secretary Dr. Wilson Songa admires a handbag at a Kenyan women traders’ stand during the EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi exhibition in Kigali. Ministry Develops Gender Policies By Grace Wasike

In efforts to achieve Gender parity and following specific objectives ensuring posts; ensuring all Ministry posts are address practices that hinder female equity and equality of opportunities comprehensively advertised and that Officers from reaching the echelons for women and men in accessing women and men are encouraged to of decision making, the Ministry of services, resources, information and apply for categories in which they East African Affairs, Commerce and employment, while at the same time may be under-represented; tabling Tourism (MEACT) has developed promoting protection of women and of Sex disaggregated statistics on two Gender Policies namely; Gender men against all forms of violence, staff profiles during top management Mainstreaming work place policy and sexual harassment and Gender meetings to encourage Departments Gender-Based Violence Policy. discrimination. and Directorates with Gender disparities to address them; Facilitating The Ministry is also cognizant of the The Gender policy further spells child support for parents such as fact that Gender Mainstreaming and out institutional transformation that establishment of onsite day care response to Gender-Based Violence will support its implementation. facilities; and Providing child care at the work place play important This entails; reviewing of the support of up to 6 months to parents roles in policy and decision-making existing programmes for gender of new born infants while on official processes which take into account responsiveness within a defined time- trips and assignments among other the needs of both women and men. frame to ensure compliance; calls for provisions. It further appreciates that Gender specific budget allocations for Gender The Gender Work Place Policy goes on Mainstreaming is an effective approach analysis, tracking information and to make recommendations on how this towards achieving Gender equality. developments on Gender training. can be effectively implemented. Some of the key aspects are: Implementation The two policies are aimed at Some of the strategies that the Ministry of the provisions of the East African complementing the Government is expected to expedite based on the Community (EAC) Treaty Articles initiatives of addressing the historical policy provisions include; ensuring that 5,(3e), and 121, the Constitution of disparities that exist between at any given time the top management Kenya 2010 and the National Gender women and men in various spheres positions are occupied by both sexes; and Development Policy (2011) on of development. It is a matter of Sensitizing the relevant Ministry staff Gender equality, non-discrimination paramount importance to ensure about Gender parity and equality and and equal participation of women in that Gender issues are considered the need to achieve Gender balance all governance structures; Encourage throughout policy-making and in the applications submitted for and advocate for the appointment implementation. advertised posts; request Departments of qualified and experienced women and Directorates to adhere to the to high level decision making The Gender Mainstreaming work place constitutional requirements in Article positions with a view to enhancing policy has the overall objective of 27(8)which provides for not more than Gender balance in various Ministerial promoting Gender equality and equity two thirds representation of either Committees, and other organs and in the Ministry with among others, the Gender in appointive and elective institutions of the Ministry.

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The second policy on Gender-Based forcing another individual through premise that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) defines GBV as: ‘Any violence, threats, deception, cultural Violence both reflects and reinforces harmful act that is perpetrated against expectation, weapons or economic inequities between men and women a person’s will based on socially circumstances, to engage in sexual compromising the health, dignity, ascribed (Gender) differences between behavior against his or her will. security and autonomy of its victims. males and females. This harmful It encompasses a wide range of act may result in, or is likely to lead The GBV policy describes different human rights violations, including to physical, sexual or psychological classes of GBV that include; Economic sexual harmful traditional practices. harm or suffering of women, girls, Violence which is Denial of economic The Ministry is therefore committed boys and men, including threats such rights to property, succession, to ensure that efforts are stepped as coercion or arbitrary deprivation employment or other economic up to achieve better results in the of liberty. These acts may occur in benefits; Physical Violence which refers management of Gender Based public or in private life, and includes to intentional use of physical force with Violence. the economic and social harm caused the potential to cause harm, injury, by such violence, both long term and disability or death; Sexual violence As the Ministry sets out on the short term’. That is considered as an act of journey to implementing the two forcing another individual through policies, it is the prerogative of all its Another closely related term, Sexual violence, threats, deception, cultural employees to be conversant with the Harassment (SH) is defined by the GBV expectation, weapons or economic provisions of the policies in order to policy as bullying, coercion of a sexual circumstances, to engage in sexual reap the maximum gains. Whether nature, unwelcome or inappropriate behavior against his or her will; and or not the policy will contribute to the promise of rewards in exchange for Psychological Violence that is caused improvement of the employee and sexual favors. It is also interesting to to the victim by acts such as threats or work environment it remain to be seen distinguish GBV and SH from Sexual coercive tactics. in the next annual surveys. Violence which denotes the act of The policy is anchored on the

Missing Links within the EAC Railways Network By Timothy Muellar

ailways and rail transport are provided for in Article 91 to show how the railways system will operate and noted the of the Treaty, in which the Community has agreed to importance of having rail transport as an integral transport Restablish and maintain coordinated railways services operation. A key output was the updated list of missing links that would efficiently connect suggested for prefeasibility the Partner States and where study under the EAC rail sector necessary construct additional enhancement project based on railway connections. A number the discussions at the meeting. of projects and initiatives The updated list is of 29 links are being undertaken by the although the consultants are Community to fulfil this Article. contracted for only 21 links.

The East African Community Those of concern to Kenya Secretariat organised a two were: Kasese-Kisangani day workshop from 14th to link (1), which is rated to be 15th April, 2014 to review of medium priority by both the draft inception report Kenya and Uganda as it and policy matrix of the East accesses Kisangani in Eastern African Railways Master Plan. Democratic Republic of The report was part of the Congo. There were concerns deliverables for the CPCS however that it transects consultants of (Canada) who critical environmentally were contracted to develop sensitive areas of the Congo the East African Railways Forest. It was also noted that sector enhancement project. the Kampala-Kasese line The meeting emphasised the was uprooted by vandals. importance of the objectives of the Railways master plan The Pakwach–Bunia-Bibik–Kisangani link (3) was rated to and how the project should help anchor the railways sector, be of medium priority by both Kenya and Uganda. It is also identify areas that need financing and propose or develop environmentally sensitive and runs parallel to the Kasese- seamless transport in the Community. The report is expected Kisangani proposed line. It has the advantage of an already

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 27 JUMUIYA NEWS

A Rift Valley Railways train at the Nairobi central Railway Station. The construction of the Standard Gauge Railway from Mombasa to Nairobi is already underway.

There are effectively three gauges operating in the Community. The Meter Gauge, the SGR and the Cape gauge operating in the Southern Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo. These gauges compromise the economics and flexibility of operating and managing locomotives and rolling stock. It necessitates transhipment where the Gauges meet and hence increases costs. existing line, at least up to Pakwach. but would be important for passenger links, there is possibility of reduced overall Lamu-Isiolo-Juba link(5), is rated a high transport. system efficiency. The Consultant needs to priority for Kenya as it links South Sudan determine that the addition links would not to the Lamu Port and a minor change was The meeting also showcased the status of hinder or reduce system efficiency. made to the route, it is not mandatory that current railway projects by Partner States. it passes through Garissa town. There are Kenya presented the Standard Gauge The current Kenyan presidential review some environmental concerns as it may Railway (SGR) project. The presentation of Parastatals’ is expected to restructure pass through wildlife sanctuaries. The highlighted the fact that it would be a the transport sector. It can be clearly Isiolo-Addis Ababa link (6), is rated to be of relatively high speed freight service of observed, that there is an organic link, high priority for Kenya as it links the Lamu averaging 100Km per hour. It would initially between the Kenya Ports Authority, port to Ethiopia. There are also some be by diesel electric locomotive with The Kenya Railways, the Kenya Pipeline environmental concerns. Lamu– Kismayo provisions for electrification in the future. It Company, Kenya Oil Refineries and the link (17), is rated low by Kenya. This is is envisaged that it would be a double line Kenya National Transport Company due to the fact that it runs along the coast facility. (KENATCO). and heavy freight between the two can be transported using sea transport. Garissa- In conclusion, some challenges to the All these companies are engaged in Nairobi link (18), is ranked highly by Kenya railway sector in the Community still need transport business for the Republic of as it is expected to transport lime and to be resolved. There are effectively three Kenya. An amalgamated arrangement, coal for cement and power generation. gauges operating in the Community. the synergies of these institutions can be Isiolo–Nairobi link (19) was added and is The Meter Gauge, the SGR and the leveraged to improve the transport sector considered of high priority to Kenya. It is to Cape gauge operating in the Southern generally to avoid the Braess’s Paradox1 replace the branch line to Nakuru as this Africa and Democratic Republic of where the seemingly increased pathways already exists. It is expected to link Nairobi Congo. These gauges compromise the may yield less returns. to the Lamu line, Ethiopia and South economics and flexibility of operating Sudan. and managing locomotives and rolling 1. Braess’s paradox, credited to the stock. It necessitates transhipment where German mathematician Dietrich Braess, There are 22 other links in other countries. the Gauges meet and hence increases states that adding extra capacity to a The meeting also noted the need to costs. Apart from customers at railways network when the moving entities selfishly have a ring around the Lake region with sidings, the railways still requires separate choose their route, can in some cases links between Kisumu and Mwanza road transport system to deliver cargo reduce overall performance. and between Butere and Malaba in from/to railway sidings to/from customer Kenya. Kenya pointed out that there dooryards. Mr Muellar is an Assistant Director, Productive and Services Sector, State Department of East was no justification for inclusion of the Mombasa-Lamu link (21) for freight as There is need to also avoid the land African Affairs freight distribution could be done by sea Braess’s Paradox1. By providing additional

28 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

Students of Moi Girls High School, Eldoret in Uasin Gishu county during an EAC sentisization lecture that was held at the school. Towards Mutual Recognition of Academic and Professional Qualifications: The EAC Scenario By Peter Chege Kamau

Mutual Recognition Agreement of Qualifications

Trade in services such as health and economic integration, while at the same such as public safety and health. education services, accounting, and time maintaining the diversity of services engineering is often conducted via that come onto the markets. According to WTO definition, a Mutual the movement of individuals to supply Recognition Agreement is an agreement the services. Even with the existence General Agreement on Trade in in which the respective authorities of market access commitments in Services accept, in whole or in part, the regulatory professional service markets, lack of authorizations obtained in the territory of recognition of foreign qualifications and The General Agreement on Trade in the other party (ies) to the agreement in experience acts as a core impediment to Services (GATS) of the World Trade granting their own authorization. trade in professional services, hindering Organization (WTO) allows members the free movement of professionals to set up bilateral or plurilateral Mutual Why MRAs? across borders either in their capacity as Recognition Agreements (MRAs). The individuals, or as professional firms. GATS therefore allow members to In general, MRAs allow qualifications recognize the education or licenses of granted in a home country to be Professional and academic qualifications some WTO members and not others. recognized in a host country. The mutual attained in different countries may vary recognition of qualifications enhances significantly. The differences in education MRAS are a prerequisite for facilitating the quality of services by increasing the systems, examination standards or the movement of professional service level of competition. Furthermore, MRAs experience requirements often hinder suppliers across borders and represent generate a diversity of services: foreign the recognition of qualifications on a powerful tools for economic integration. professionals can fill a supply gap, in multilateral level. To secure the free The mutual recognition process case one country experiences limitations movement of professionals and trigger requires a thorough understanding and in offered services. Additionally, trade in services, Mutual Recognition of acknowledgement of how professionals recognition agreements augment Qualifications is of the essence. Mutual in different countries acquire and assess cooperation among professional Recognition Agreements have a great their professional qualifications. Shared associations and regulatory bodies, potential for facilitating the movement high standards of qualifications are as regulators and accreditation bodies of professional services suppliers. They of paramount importance for service cooperate by exchanging information are also instrumental to policy reform, providers and consumers of services, and best practices. This in turn benefits and can be a very effective tool for especially when it comes to vital areas the professional. Finally, MRAs still

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 29 JUMUIYA NEWS

allow a country to regulate the supply of • Gap analysis on a side-by-side institution or agency designated by a professional services within its territory comparison between qualifications Partner State to carry out the functions by registering as well as licensing only focusing on legislation, procedures required by these regulations. appropriately qualified and competent and standards to determine professionals. compatibility of differences; The Council of Ministers adopted the • Undertaking of relevant action to close Annex and forwarded it to the Sectoral Developing MRAs nay unsustainable gaps regarding Council on Legal and Judicial Affairs for According to the WTO, the principle training programmes, experience legal input. The Annex was discussed at of mutual recognition requires certain requirements, registration processes the 11th meeting of the Sectoral Council preconditions. Negotiating countries e.t.c across Partner States; on Legal and Judicial Affairs and in its must in the first place determine the • Visits to each other’s offices to recommendations, the Sectoral Council educational level that is required to observe programme oversight, if directed the EAC Secretariat to prepare exercise a certain profession. Moreover, required; draft regulations, identify the outstanding an appropriate institution regulating a • Resolution regarding data protection legal issues and thereafter, circulate the corresponding profession must be in and data security issues; same to Partner States for comments. place. A corresponding profession is • Establishment of a legal framework for defined as a profession in the host country the MRA, if not already in place; Achievements which practices a substantial number of • Designating and providing a point of So far, three professions in the region similar activities as the relevant profession contact to the Partner States. have signed MRAs, namely accountants, in the home country. Another prerequisite architects and engineers. The MRA is the high level commitment to consider MRAs in the EAC among the Accountants from Kenya, and develop an MRA. Finally MRAs require Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and the United willingness on the part of the host country The EAC Common Market Protocol Republic of Tanzania was signed on and its bodies which award professional provides for the free movement of labour, 14th September, 2011. The MRA among qualifications/licenses, to respect the services and service suppliers. Pursuant the Architects from the five countries quality of professional education and to Article 11(1) (a) of the Protocol, Partner was signed on 30th July 2011. The training in other countries and accept the States have undertaken to mutually MRA among the Engineers from Kenya, principle of mutual recognition. recognize the academic and professional Uganda and Tanzania was signed on 7th. qualifications granted, experience December, 2012. If these preconditions are met, the MRA obtained, requirements met, licenses or pre-formulation process may follow. This certificates granted in other Partner States. As the table below illustrates, 216 process brings together the professional accountants have so far pursued practice bodies of the negotiating countries and will In order to implement this article, Partner opportunities in other Partner States. There typically consist of but is not limited to the States have negotiated Annex (VI) “The have been 15 requests for recognition and following: East African Community Common Market 8 licenses have been granted through the (Mutual Recognition of Academic and architects’ MRA. Nine (9) engineers have • Assessment of training programmes, Professional Qualifications) Regulations requested recognition and five licenses legislation, current policies and 2011.” As highlighted in the Annex (VI), have been granted through the engineers’ registration process; negotiating and signing MRAs is to be MRA. • Consideration and identification of undertaken by “competent Authorities” comparable benefits; which are a Ministry, a department, office,

Licenses and Admissions granted through MRAs in the EAC

Country of Destination Accountants Architects Engineers Burundi 7 0 0 Kenya 18 6 0 Rwanda 146 0 2 Tanzania 21 0 3 Uganda 24 2 0 Total 216 8 5

In addition, templates for negotiations which enable the recognition of external and drafting MRAS have been developed qualifications. Three other professions Mr Kamau is an Assistant Director of providing a framework and reference namely; the veterinarians, midwives and Social Affairs at the State Department of points. The EAC Secretariat in partnership lawyers are in the process of negotiating East African Affairs. with GIZ has also developed bench marks and developing their MRAs.

30 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

The Role of the Social Media in EAC Sensitization By Effie Omondi

A survey carried out by Rwanda in 2011 tool and exploit fully. around students/youth who may not – 2013 indicates that at least 73 per be fully equipped with all the requisite cent of Rwandese are aware of the East Indeed, there are a lot of ‘groups’ knowledge to respond appropriately to African Community (EAC), way above the and ‘pages’ currently running in the the concerns raised in the platforms. rates in Burundi, Kenya and Tanzania. social media with the aim of raising Additionally, these administrators are The survey, conducted by Trade Mark awareness. One of such is the EAC not fully dedicated to these platforms East Africa (TMEA), also indicates that 90 Youth Ambassadors Platform (YAP) on because of other engagements, and per cent of local institutions understand Facebook, platform where the youth therefore only get to post/respond to the EAC integration process. are invited and encouraged to give issues at infrequent times. views and opinions on various issues in Burundi comes second with a general the EAC integration process (currently To address these challenges, the population awareness level of 66 per with slightly over 1,500 members). It EAC Secretariat may need to put up cent, followed by Tanzania (65 per cent), is run by the present and past Youth one official page, and commit it to an while Kenya lags behind at 46 per cent. Ambassadors, who are appointed by the administrator(s) who dedicate specific EAC Secretariat through a competitive times and days just to respond to Clearly, more needs to be done to process to spearhead EAC Integration issues raised as well as update on any raise these levels, especially in Kenya, process awareness among the youth in upcoming events and encourage people with a special focus on the youth, their respective countries. voice their opinions, so that the same currently forming at least 75% of the can be officially relayed to relevant entire population. And what better and persons. This is especially important effective use than the social media! since the events organized are mostly The social media integration is According to CIO attended by a few representatives of the undoubtedly the highest and widest East Africa, at least youth, so that a majority of opinions may form of integration the society has not entirely be voiced out effectively. experienced in the modern times. 77% of the EAC’s Youth population All in all, sensitization on EAC is not a According to CIO East Africa, at least one man’s responsibility but for all of us 77% of the EAC Youth population visit visit social media who have such knowledge to embrace social media daily. Based on this fact, it daily. and reach out to all those we interact is undoubtedly the most powerful tool for with every day, both in and out of social any kind of communication for and to the media. youth, who form more than half of the EAC population. It is for this very reason In as much as this and other efforts Ms Omondi, was the EAC Youth that the EAC Secretariat, under whose done by the youth in the social Ambassador for Kenya 2013/2014, mandate includes raising awareness media is commendable and must and a student of Law at Moi University, levels, together with other responsible be applauded, the major challenge Eldoret stakeholders, may consider the crucial is that the interactions must revolve

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 31 JUMUIYA NEWS

Industrialization PS Wilson Songa tries his hand on a Burundian traditional drum during the Jua Kali exhibition in Kigali. On the extreme right is Kenyan High Commissioner to Rwanda John Mwangemi.

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Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 33 JUMUIYA NEWS

markets in Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, The EAC Common Market Protocol Rwanda, as well as South Sudan, Four Years on: Reaping the Benefits Eastern DRC and parts of Northern Tanzania. By Noel Wandera The new Berth 19 at the port of Mombasa, commissioned on August 28, When establishing the East African which will significantly boost trade and 2013 has expanded the port’s annual Community in 1999, the EAC Partner investments and make the region more cargo handling capacity by an additional States aspired to deepen and widen productive and prosperous. 250,000 Twenty Foot Equivalent Units regional integration through a four-pillar (TEUs). The new 240m long berth brings journey entailing a Customs Union, the Free Movement of Goods the total length of Mombasa’s Container Common Market, Monetary Union and Terminal to 840 metres, enabling ultimately a Political Federation. Over Several infrastructure projects within the berthing of larger containers. this period, the EAC has made important EAC involving rail, roads and ports are strides towards achieving regional being implemented. Prior to the commissioning of Berth 19, integration. total cargo passing through the port of For instance, completion of the 2,784 Mombasa in 2012 was 903,463 TEUs. The journey aims at enabling EAC kms Mombasa-Kampala Standard Since it became operational, movement countries to take advantage of enlarged Gauge Railway (SGR) will increase the of transit goods from the Port to Malaba numbers to strengthen their economies speed of ferrying cargo (at speeds has reduced to a maximum of 5 days and bargaining power in a globalised of up to 100 km/h) hence, reducing from an average 18 days. Additionally, world. This will make the EAC more transportation time and improving trade the cargo clearance period has reduced competitive on the world’s trade and volumes at a lower cost. The railway to five days from the previous nine. investment stage and yield more project will contribute to improvement of employment opportunities for East rail freight from the current four per cent These measures combined have Africans. to at least 50 per cent in the next few increased regional trade volumes. For years. instance, the total volume of Burundi The Common Market Protocol cargo through the port in 2013 was (CMP) Moreover, infrastructure improvement 72,000 tonnes compared to 39,000 of the ports will ensure that they have tonnes handled in 2012, representing an increase of 33,000 tons or 84.50 The establishment of the EAC Common the required capacity to keep pace with percent. Construction of a new terminal Market is one of the four pillars of the growing trade volumes and increased at the port with three berths is scheduled region’s integration. It provides for “Four demand for port services. The Coastal for completion in 2016. Freedoms, namely the free movement ports are the entrance points to East Report on of goods, labour, services, and capital, African countries and link goods to port passing 1million cargo mark in December, 2014

The Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Post on the Kenya-Tanzania border under construction.

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Free Movement of Persons Free Movement of Capital

To facilitate free movement of persons, The CMP identifies regionalisation of Online infrastructural integration is also EAC Partner States have abolished the Partner States’ Capital Markets on course, the latest development student visa requirement for East with the aim of making the EAC a more on this platform being the recently Africans, thereby facilitating easier viable destination for both foreign and unveiled Kenya TradeNet System, student movement in the region. This domestic investment. Bolstering the an electronic platform that allows move has led to increased student liquidity of the region’s capital markets government officials, traders and enrolment across the borders enabling and creating financing avenues for transporters to use a single window improved socialization amongst EAC investors and issuers is one key to complete import and export students. objective. transactions. The system is expected to improve regional trade environment After the signing of the agreement by reducing delays and transaction allowing citizens of Partner States Online costs. to use Identity Cards (IDs) to move infrastructural from one country to another, and Other achievements operationalization of the same by integration is also Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda, the on course, the Another measure being taken towards number of people moving within the latest development enhancing movement of persons, countries has increased statistics. Give on this platform labour, goods and capital in the region is the construction of One Stop Border statistics. This goes in tandem with being the recently the introduction of the East African Posts (OSBPs), which will reduce clearance procedure duration by up Passport. Moreover, there have been unveiled Kenya to 40 per cent. The move is expected concerted efforts to promote tourism TradeNet System, to save the region up to $7 million per in the region. For instance, Partner an electronic annum with just one hour reduction in States have introduced a single tourist platform that clearance time. visa, providing an opportunity for allows government tourists visiting to the region to travel officials, traders Under the OSBP arrangement, cross with ease to their preferred tourist border goods clearance will be destination. and transporters carried out once at the point of entry, to use a single contrary to the existing trend of double Free Movement of Labour window to clearance – at the exit and entry border complete import points respectively. Kenya’s OSBPs are being constructed at Isebania, Before the signing of the CMP, and export Taveta, Lunga Lunga, Namanga, Busia about 130 million East African transactions. and Malaba. The first three are in the citizens were confined within their final phase of construction. respective countries. However, with the implementation of the CMP, Once the CMP is fully implemented, professionals in a number of fields the region is set to reap more socio- can now work freely in the region In this regard, Partner States are economic and political benefits, following the signing of the specific in the process of incorporating leading to improved livelihoods for East Mutual Recognition Agreements the Securities Exchange, Central Africans. (MRA’s). Some of the professional Securities Depositories, Self-Regulatory bodies that have already assented Organisations and Conduct of Mr. Wandera is a communications to the agreement include teachers, Business for Market Intermediaries consultant with Apex Porter Novelli, accountants and lawyers. into their respective national legal a PR and advertising firm based in frameworks. Other similar policies Nairobi. Further, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda include Anti-Money Laundering, have moved to waive work permit fees Investor Compensation Fund and for East African residents, ahead of Corporate Governance for Listed Burundi and Tanzania. This has eased Companies, Investor Protection and the process of labour movement within Regulation of Takeovers and Mergers the region. It is expected that common policies. ground will soon be reached to enable all East Africans to work freely within the bloc.

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 35 JUMUIYA NEWS

Upscale Technological Innovations to Boost Agricultural Productivity, urges PS By Michael Okidi

East African Affairs Principal Secretary John Konchellah has expressed the need for enhanced technological innovations for toured the various show stands. improved agricultural productivity in “With cross-border trade between the country. Kenya and her East African Mr Konchellah noted that as the neighbours becoming easier and backbone of Kenya’s economic cheaper with the establishment of the development, agricultural activities One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs), you need constant blending with must now look beyond the domestic improved technology to be able to market and go regional,” he told the surmount possible challenges and exhibitors. increase profitability. He noted that the donor-funded The PS challenged researchers to OSBPs would drastically reduce time constantly come up with improved spent at the current cross border ways of enhancing agricultural double clearances, as goods would now be cleared only once, at the productivity, noting that the country’s demand outside Kenya, especially point of entry. agricultural sector should not be left within the larger East African region. to stagnate in the static production The PS noted that there were The PS further urged exhibitors to methodologies if it has to maximize several opportunities opening up capitalize on annual trade fairs in the profits from the agricultural sector. within the region, as the East African other EAC Partner States to market Konchellah was speaking at the Community integration takes root themselves and attract clients beyond Jamhuri Park on the first day of the and heads steadily towards a single the Kenyan borders. 2014 Nairobi International Trade expanded market of over 140 million Fair where he was the chief guest. people. He praised the organizers of the He said that countries that had Saying that the EAC regional annual trade fairs and agricultural made a breakthrough in agricultural bloc promises immense trade shows across the country, noting that development had invested heavily opportunities for agricultural and farmers and businessmen stood to in research and technological industrial innovators, the PS gain immensely by learning new skills innovations. expressed confidence that Kenyan showcased during these events. Konchellah, who toured several entrepreneurs had the capacity to Konchellah urged the Agricultural stands at the trade fair, challenged come up and compete effectively for Society of Kenya (ASK) to establish exhibitors to strive to make a mark space and clientele within the region. in the perceptions of show-goers by strong working partnerships with their counterparts from the other EAC showcasing unique but profitable Kenyan traders, manufacturers Partner States for the participation methodologies geared towards and farmers now have a massive of Kenyan entrepreneurs in other economic development. opportunity to export their produce regional shows and also to attract beyond the national borders and into exhibitors from other countries into He further urged the exhibitors to look the regional market, thanks to the the Kenyan trade fairs. beyond the Kenyan market and come EAC Common Market that came into up with goods that could attract force in 2010, Konchellah said as he

36 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

A Rwandan security forces band plays the EAC Anthem during the official opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition in Kigali.

Towards this important concern. Indeed, enforcement. Such measures should be cooperation in peace and security began anchored on economic, diplomatic and Deepening immediately the EAC Treaty came into political power. force. This cooperation has resulted Cooperation on in the development of a log frame for They should also be linked to broader Security within implementation of a counter terrorism socio-economic programmes in such strategy to facilitate speedy conclusion a way that the issues of unemployment the EAC of investigations and prosecution of for the ever growing population of suspects; and an EAC Early Warning school-leaving youth, poverty and By Alice Yalla Mechanism (EACWARN) to facilitate hunger are conclusively addressed at anticipation, preparedness and early both the national and regional levels. A peaceful, secure and stable responses to situations that are likely to Social programmes aimed at deepening environment is critical for cross border affect peace and security in the region. integration among ordinary citizens business to thrive; and for profitable In terms of interstate security, the across national borders should also be relations with neighbours as well as cooperation has been voiced through formulated. equitable socio- economic growth and various agreements focusing on joint development. Indeed, the EAC Partner training, information exchange and other In terms of policy, effective approaches States under Article 5, 3 (f) of the Treaty confidence building measures. These to cross-border security should be establishing the Community, undertake are positive steps that fit well in the institutionalized to safeguard Community to promote peace, security, stability and context of globalization, where security borders from being breached by good neighbourliness within the region. is considered a trans-boundary issue criminals. Partner States should embrace that calls for regional and international machine-readable identity cards, and This commitment to peace is an approaches to guarantee freedom, promote joint utilization of forensic underlying theme of the Fundamental peace and safety. facilities to help in profiling criminal Principles of the EAC as outlined in elements. Article 6 of the Treaty. Regional security however, is compromised by emergent and new Similarly, comprehensive sensitization Interstate Peace and Security is the generation threats including terrorism, programmes that encourage the EAC bedrock on which realization of the international crime syndicates, piracy, populace to fully understand and aspirations of the EAC Customs Union, money laundering schemes, cybercrime, embrace ‘East Africanness’ should be Common Market, Monetary Union and narcotics and human trafficking, rolled out. ultimately Political Federation is based. environmental degradation, illegal Without the assurance that people and immigrants and refugees, and trade in Partner States should incessantly work their goods can transit the EAC borders illicit small and light arms among others. to prevent, better manage and resolve without risking their investments or lives, regional disputes and conflicts. the uptake of the opportunities that the To effectively counter these crimes, Mrs Yalla is the acting Director of Political integrated market offers will be minimal. regional groupings must work towards Affairs at the State Department of East Investors also need assurance that their formulating and implementing measures African Affairs. investments will be secure over time. that will lead to peacemaking, peace EAC Partner States have not overlooked keeping, peace building and peace

Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 37 JUMUIYA NEWS

Cooking stoves made by a jua kali artisan from Eldoret, Kenya on displays at the Jua Kali exhibition in Kigali, Rwanda.

38 Issue 30 - Jan - Mar, 2015 JUMUIYA NEWS

Weak Policy Framework Hinders Growth of Jua Kali Sector By Simon Peter Owaka

A weak policy framework and lack of access to Nguvu Kazi sector will promote and enhance credit are some of the major obstacles to the growth in the modern industrial sector,” he said. growth of the Jua Kali sector within the East African Community (EAC) region. He noted that in contrast, a weak Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi sector would not generate the necessary The Chairman of the East African Confederation economic potential to act as a catalyst for of Informal Sector Organisations, Mr Josephat industrial growth. Rweyemamu, said in particular that access to credit owing to stringent collateral requirements “It is therefore important to ensure there is a and high interest rates was a major drawback in thriving Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi sector that will give a all the five EAC Partner States. boost to the other economic sectors,” he said.

Rweyemamu cited unavailability of permanent Mr Rweyemamu was speaking during the working sites; lack of vocational and business opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi management skills, and; weak sector-specific Exhibition at the Gikondo Expo Grounds in Kigali, associations as other major constraints to the Rwanda. The event was officially opened by growth of the sector. Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi. Rweyemamu said the rapid growth of the Jua Kali sector in the region would generate income and He thanked the governments of the five EAC employment for artisans and in the process earn Partner States and the EAC Secretariat for their foreign exchange for the region through exports. support to the exhibition over the past 15 years.

“The Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi sector has been “Your support for this exhibition is a most recognized as an entry point for many job welcome gesture and indeed a manifestation of seekers, income generator for numerous your commitment for partnering with the sector households and an engine for economic to promote social and economic development, development. A sustained growth of the Jua Kali/ leading to industrial growth for our region. It is our entire hope that this partnership will enhance integration in the region,’ said the Chairman.

The Chairman of the East African Confederation of Informal Sector Organisations, Mr Josephat Rweyemamu, speaking during the official opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition in Kigali.

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Micro and Small Enterprises Authority Chief Executive Officer Patrick Mwangi (left) admires a sculpture made Perspectivesby afrom Rwandese artist.the The Juaartist made Kali the sculpture Sector in his own image ByPerspectives Simon Peter Owaka from the Jua Kali Sector By Simon Peter Owaka

he quality and quantity of goods Njoroge, adding that different markets “We need systems and capacities that exhibited at the annual East have diverse tastes and needs. will ensure we make quality products that TAfrican Community Jua Kali/Nguvu will be in demand throughout the region. Kazi exhibition have risen significantly “For instance, Rwandans require This we can do if governments and other since the start of the event 15 years ago. different colours and sizes of clothes. stakeholders invest in research, skills It is therefore critical for exhibitors from upgrading for artisans and giving them This was the verdict of officials of the other Partner States to understand access to credit,” he said. informal sector organisations from the the market before moving to purchase Ben Asiimwe, the national chairman five East African Community Partner stock,” he said. of the Uganda Informal Sector States. Transformation Organisation (UGISTO) Njoroge said it was necessary to train says the Jua Kali Exhibition was better Speaking to Jumuiya News during the exhibitors to come up with better than previous years in terms of numbers 2014 EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi Exhibition products that could penetrate new of exhibitors, increased sales and the at the Gikondo Expo Grounds in Kigali, markets in the EAC region and beyond. standards of goods. Rwanda the officials, however, said the Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Sector in the region still has a long way to go to realise its full potential, this because of various challenges.

James Njoroge, the Secretary General of the Kenya-Chapter of the East African Confederation of Informal Sector Organisations (CISO), says the exhibition started off in Arusha in 1999 with 150 people rising to nearly 700 exhibitors at the Kigali expo.

“Exhibitors initially used crude ways of making products. Today, I can confidently say we have products of international standards. What exhibitors lack is the knowledge to understand the clients they are looking for,” said

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Asiimwe however observed that there was no diversification among the exhibitors in terms of products yet they sell to the same market. He attributed non-diversification to lack of marketing, adding that the standards though improved were still low. He said UGISTO was trying to assist its members to boost their enterprises.

“UGISTO has created a revolving fund for its members. Each member pays a particular amount and is allowed to borrow funds to purchase machinery to improve the quality of their products. It’s a revolving fund, not a Sacco,” he said, adding that the arrangement would help create quality cottage industries in Uganda.

He called for training of artisans to equip them with the necessary skills saying this would enable them to create products that have a ready market. Mr Jumapile Rajabu, the Chairman of said revenue authorities take long to the CISO-Burundi Chapter, revealed that clear goods causing unnecessary Asiimwe said jua kali artisans feel they are KCB Bank Group had embarked on an delays; producing so much yet their contribution is initiative to train 20,000 Burundian artisans 2) Each Partner State should establish not fully recognized. in carpentry, leather making, basketry, permanent exhibition facilities like has painting, sculpture and woodwork. been done in Rwanda. Such facilities Mr Josephat Rweyemamu, the current can be used by artisans to market regional Chairman of the CIS, said Rajabu said KCB was planning to provide their products even when there is no products at the exhibition had improved in soft loans to enable the artisans purchase exhibition; volumes and variety over the years. equipment and set up businesses. 3) Exhibitors should be awarded certificates of participation specifying Rweyemamu, who is also the Chairman The officials made a number of their skills as well; of the Tanzania-CISO Chapter, said cross recommendations which they said would 4) Governments to assist in value border trade has increased courtesy of the facilitate the exhibition, namely: addition especially through packaging annual exposition. He added that the event and certification of products, and; provides an opportunity for artisans to 1) Revenue authorities in the host Partner 5) Support small and micro enterprises share ideas and innovations. State should obey directives from to showcase their products at the EAC Secretariat on movement of international exhibitions. goods destined for exhibitions. They

Exhibitors attend to visitors at a stand during the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Exhibition at the Gikondo Expo Grounds in Kigali.

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East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie [left], EAC Secretary General, Dr East African Legislative Assembly MPs, Mumbi Richard Sezibera [center] and Principal Secretary for East Africn Affairs, John Konchellah, follow proceedings Ngaru [left] and Sarah Bonaya lead a team of the during the EAC Council of Ministers meeting at the Kenyatta International Conventions Center, Nairobi in regional legislators in inspecting construction November 2014. works of One Stop Border Post at Malaba on the Kenya-Uganda border.

East Africa Legislative Assembly Member Peter Mathuki addresses leaders EAC Deputy Secretaries General, from right, Ms Jescah Eriyo, Dr Enos Bukuku, from Busia County during a public hearing by EALA Kenya Chapter MPs and Jean Claude Nzengiyumvia and Charles Njoroge during the EAC Council of the State Department of East African Affairs. Ministers meeting in Nairobi in November, 2014.

East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Principal Secretary for East African Affairs, John Konchellah (middle) with the Kenyan EAC Youth Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie with her Ugandan Ambassadors Mr.Robin Chacha and Rachael Omukhulu in the Departments Boardroom .The counterpart Shem Bageine during a cocktail party Ambassadors were chosen through a debate held at the Catholic University of East Africa. organized by the Ministry for delegates who attended the EAC Council of Ministers meeting in Nairobi .

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Deputy President William Ruto (seated) with his Busia Governor Sospeter Ojamoong [left],receives IEC Materials from Mrs Agnes Sila, immediate former Burundian counterpart Prosper Bazombaza during Director of Social Affairs at the State Department of East African Affairs, during a sensitization forum for the 3rd EAC Heads of State Infrastructure Retreat County officials in Busia. Looking on is EALA MP Peter Mathuki. at the KICC.

Mr. Evanson Musau (right) demonstrates on the effective use of protection as mitigation to the spread of HIV/AIDs during the Ministry’s HIV awareness An East African Affairs staff Lynette Methuselah (seated) is taken through the week in Machakos County. Biometric Registration carried out in the State department

East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie is welcomed by East African Affairs Principal Secretary John Konchellah when the Principal Secretary for East African Affairs, John Konchellah (left) shares a light moment with the CS arrived for a media breakfast meeting at a Nairobi Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir during the Council of Ministers meeting at KICC. At the hotel, in November 2014. middle is the EAC Affairs Commerce and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Phylis Kandie.

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East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism CS Phyllis Kandie (right) hands over the EAC Council chairmanship to the then Tanzanian EAC Affairs Principal Secretary for East African Affairs, John Konchellah hands over his documents during the biometric Minister Samuel Sitta during the Council meeting registration of civil servants at the State Department of East African Affairs. held in Nairobi in November 2014.

The Director of Administration at the State Department of East African Affairs, Tanzanian PS for East African Cooperation, Ms Joyce Mapunjo, receives some Mr. Andrew Rukaria, with Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (Kenya) staffer documents from EAC Public Relations Officer Owora Othieno at the EAC stand Florence Njuguna at the Kenyan stand at the Gikondo Expo grounds, Kigali. during the Jua Kali Exhibition in Kigali.

Deputy President William Ruto with EAC Secretary East African Affairs staffers (from right) Mary Maina, Sheila Koiyet, Caroline Ayugi and Deborah General Richard Sezibera and East African Affairs CS Oluk pack information, education and communication materials during the 16th EAC Heads of Phyllis Kandie at the KICC when the DP arrived for the State Summit at KICC, Nairobi. 3rd EAC Infrastructure retreat.

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Rwandan Trade and Industry Minister Francois Micro and Small Enterprises Authority Board Chairman Paul Ngugi with Kenyan High Commissioner to Rwanda Kanimba addresses the media during the Jua Kali John Mwangemi (centre) and Industrialization PS Wilson Songa at the Kenyan stand during the EAC Jua Kali exhibition in Kigali. Exhibition in Kigali.

Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto is received at the Kenyatta International A Rwandan Army officer takes the salute as the EAC Anthem is played during the Convention Centre by Mining Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala during the 3rd EAC official opening of the EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi Exhibition in Kigali. With him are Heads of State Infrastructure Retreat. Looking on are East African Affairs, Commerce two ushers at the event. and Tourism CS Phyllis Kandie and EAC Secretary General Richard Sezibera.

EAC Director General (Customs and Trade) during the Cabinet Secretaries Phyllis Kandie [East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism, front row, 2nd left] official opening of the 15th EAC Jua Kali-Nguvu Kazi and her Energy Counterpart Davis Chirchir [3rd left] at the EAC Council of Ministers meeting in Nairobi Exhibition in Kigali. in November 2014. On the left is PS for East African Affairs, John Konchellah.

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Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi (gesticulating) greets East African Business Council official Keli Kiilu (back to camera) at the Gikondo Expo Grounds in Kigali. The PM had just opened the 15th EAC Jua Kali exhibition. On the extreme right is Rwandan Trade and Industry Minister Francois Kanimba.

EAC Director General for Customs and Trade Peter Kiguta (2nd Left) with (from left) Diana Uwantenge (CEO - CISO East Africa), Gladys Kinyua (East African Affairs Department - Kenya) and Richard Muteti (CISO East Africa Project Manager) during the Jua Kali Exhibition in Rwanda.

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A ship docks on Berth 19 at the port of Mombasa. Kenya Ports Authority is building berths 20 and 21 which will increase the port’s cargo handling capacity.

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