The EAC Secretariat in collaboration with GIZ through the LIFTED Project and East African Civil Society Organizations’ Forum with financial support from the European Union is inviting applications for the East African Community Hackathon.

Designed to drive regional economic integration within the East African Community (EAC), the hackathon aims to harness the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of women and youth Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) from across the eight EAC Partner States. At its core, the hackathon will provide a platform for nurturing innovation and collaboration, empowering participants to devise, refine and elevate transformative projects that address critical barriers to regional trade in services. 

By focusing on key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, finance, ICT, logistics, and environmental management, the hackathon seeks to generate actionable and scalable solutions that will enhance the flow of services across borders, streamline economic cooperation, and foster inclusive growth within the region. Through the initiative, women and youth will be provided with a platform to showcase their ideas and will be equipped with tools, mentorship, and networks needed to turn these ideas into sustainable ventures that contribute to EAC's broader economic and social development goals. 

**Eligibility Criteria (What Solutions are we looking for?)**

The Hackathon is receiving applications from all the East Africa Partner States including Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Somalia who meet the following criteria:

- Must be Enterprises or Organizations registered in any of the EAC Partner states
- Must be innovative solutions addressing the East Africa Region Economic Challenges and integration issues that enable ease of movement of goods and services within the East Africa community
- Must be from a youth (between the age of 18-35 years old) or women founded enterprise or organization
- Must be solutions being implemented or have potential to be implemented in two or more Partner States
- Must be from or targeting any of these sectors: Tourism, Agriculture, Finance, Logistics, Communication, Digital Services and Environmental Conservation.
- If selected as a finalist, be available and committed to participate in all capacity enhancement sessions, the actual hackathon and final pitch events.

**Assessment Criteria**

Your innovative project will be assessed against the following Criteria:
- _Problem statement:_ Clearly researched and defined problem statement backed by credible evidence
- _Impact & Scalability:_ Applications should have a defined vision, target group and be able to demonstrate potential to solve the challenges or existing problems within the EAC
- _Novelty:_ Applications should demonstrate how their solutions and business models are innovative while being technically and technologically suitable and viable in the EAC market
- _Traction:_ Applications should be able to present evidence of feasibility and adoption by the target group within EAC
- _Financial Sustainability:_ Applications must demonstrate their ability to generate revenues and long-term potential for financial sustainability
- _Team:_ Applications should demonstrate diverse, non-discriminatory and inclusive team that is youth or women founded and led with the necessary skills to grow the enterprise

**Benefits**

- Grant funding of up to Euro 15,000 for each of the top 4 youth and 4 women led enterprises
- Pitching at the Regional EAC Youth Forum.
- Participation in the Training, Coaching, Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
- Opportunity to showcase and market the Innovative Solutions within the EAC

**Can you apply with more than one project or enterprise?**

•	Yes, you can submit as many applications as you wish if they are independent    innovations solving the regional integration challenges.

**Application process**

•	To apply, fill in the application form at [https://shorturl.at/yKR2H](link)
and submit on or before **21st November 2024**

For more information on the Hackathon and the application process, please send an email to: accelerator.kenya@e4impact.org


**About LIFTED**

LIFTED “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC” is a project jointly co-financed by the European Union EU, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). LIFTED aims to increase EAC, continental and further bilateral trade with EU in Trade in Services and Civil Society engagement in the framework of the (AfCFTA) for people-centred EAC integration. It is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat.


Call for Applications for the Youth and Women Innovations to Enhance East Africa’s Economic Integration (GIZ)

From October 8 to 11, 2024, the EAC Partner States, with support from the EAC-GIZ Programme, gathered in Nairobi to validate the assessment report and regulatory framework on the One Network Area (ONA) initiative. This initiative aims to streamline communication across the EAC by harmonising roaming and traffic exchange for voice calls, SMS, and data. The goal is to foster regional integration and make communication more affordable.

ONA seeks to create a seamless telecommunications environment within the EAC, allowing users to communicate across borders without incurring extra charges. For instance, when someone roams in another EAC country, they will only pay local rates for calls and messages, significantly reducing costs.

To ensure the successful rollout of ONA, the Regulatory Framework incorporates a SWOT analysis that evaluates the current roaming and traffic exchange arrangements to identify strengths and weaknesses. It benchmarks with other regions, such as the European Union (EU), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), on their regional and international direct dialling traffic interconnect arrangements to identify best practices. Further, the framework contains Quality of Service (QoS) parameters, ensuring high standards for roaming services and proposals for revenue assurance and protection against revenue loss and fraudulent activities in telecommunications.

![ona.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/ona_6c0ed6c58a.jpg)

 Imagine you're a business traveller, and you often travel within the region for business. Prior to ONA, if you received a call while roaming in another country, you would incur high charges. If a colleague from Kenya called you while you were in Uganda, you might have paid extra just to answer the call, along with additional costs for making calls and sending texts.

Now, with the new regulations under the ONA, specific cost caps for mobile communications within the EAC have been established:

**- Receiving Calls:** when receiving a call while roaming, there will be no charges reflected. Users, therefore, do not need to worry about additional costs.
**- Making Calls:** When making a call to someone in Rwanda, for example, you will pay a maximum of USD 0.10 per minute, including taxes.
**- Sending Texts:** If you send a text message, the maximum you will be required to pay is USD 0.027 per SMS.
**- Using Data:** If you need to use data to check emails or browse the internet, for example, your data charges are capped at USD 0.005 per MB. This makes it affordable for users to stay connected on the go.

ONA fosters a more connected East Africa; it makes it easier for individuals and businesses to connect, boosting economic activity, i.e., trade and investment in the region.

The EAC initially launched ONA for voice calls in January 2015, starting with Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan. Recent additions include Tanzania and Burundi, which joined in July 2023 and August 2024, respectively. The Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia, as newer members of the community, are encouraged to adopt ONA to benefit their citizens and businesses.

The EAC One Network Area initiative marks a significant step toward greater connectivity and integration in East Africa. By harmonising telecommunications policies, the EAC aims to create a common market that benefits all its member states, paving the way for enhanced economic growth and social interactions across the region.

**Background:** 

Through the Support to East African Integration (SEAMPEC II) Programme, EAC-GIZ supports the advancement of the One Network Area to all Partner States and the development of regulatory frameworks/guidelines on mobile money, data, and voice call and SMS roaming in the Financial and Communication sectors with respect to the EAC Common Market Protocol.

Find more information on SEAMPEC II [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/support-to-east-african-market-driven-and-people-centered-integration-seampec). 

Enhancing Connectivity in East Africa: The EAC One Network Area Initiative (GIZ)

The Republic of South Sudan has today acceded to the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) of engineers, marking a significant milestone towards the movement of professional engineers in the East African Community. The MRA aims to streamline recognition of professional qualifications of engineers in the region, thereby paving the way for their cross-border mobility. 

The accession agreement was signed by the Registrar of the Engineering Council of South Sudan, the Engineers Board of Kenya, the Engineers Registration Board of Tanzania, the Engineers Registration Board of Uganda, and the Rwanda Engineering Council. The ceremony was witnessed by a representative of the Partner States, the EAC Secretariat and GIZ through DIGEAT & LIFTED initiatives supporting the EAC to facilitate the movement of professionals in the region in line with the Common Market Protocol. 

The Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community provides for the creation of a Common Market among the Partner States with free movement of labour, goods, services, capital, and the right of establishment. For this purpose, the Partner States are required to mutually recognize the academic and professional qualifications granted, experience obtained, requirements met, licenses, or certifications granted in other Partner States. 

![4.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/4_c8577a8b4f.jpg)

As an innovative step to breaking down barriers hindering the cross-border mobility of professionals in East Africa, the East African Community, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and the European Union (EU) jointly developed the project Digitalisation for East African Trade and Integration (DIGEAT) and LIFTED. The two projects focus on the existing Mutual Recognition Agreement for engineers and aim to improve cross-border mobility regulatory frameworks as well as establish a digital data exchange mechanism to facilitate the recognition of qualifications of practicing engineers in the region. 

By enhancing the mobility of professionals, the MRAs are expected to facilitate transfer of knowledge and skills in the region and improve access to a wider pool of experts, thereby promoting quality and professionalism in the EAC region. 

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Dorcas Omukhulu, EAC Principal Education Officer underscored the need for the Competent Authorities in the 5 Partner States to ensure quality assurance of engineering professionals in the region.  

“I also in this vein call upon the Partner States’ whose competent Authorities have not acceded to the Engineers’ MRA to do so”. She added. 

Representing the Engineering MRA Coordination Committee in East Africa, Eng. Benard Kavishe, Chairman and Registrar of Engineers Registration Board of Tanzania observed that the decision was reached after comprehensive conformity assessment of the application by South Sudan, as guided by Article 11.3 of the MRA.    

“This historic event will further strengthen the region's engineering profession and facilitate the free movement of skilled engineers within the EAC, contributing to the overall development and economic growth of the region” he added 

![5.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/5_c7c52d189b.jpg)

In his remarks, Mr. Bjoern Richter, the EAC – GIZ Cluster Coordinator reflected on the GIZ support to the East African economic integration journey for the last 25 years. “GIZ is pleased to support the Engineering Boards of different Partner States to facilitate not just the ceremony but also the platforms for cross-border skilled labour and look forward to working with the engineering stakeholders in the region.” he said 

The accession of South Sudan to the MRA is a testament to the EAC's commitment to fostering regional cooperation and creating a vibrant and prosperous East African Community. 

**Backgound** 
 
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight Partner States: the Republics of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Federal Republic of Somalia. The EAC's mission is to promote sustainable development and regional integration through cooperation in various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, and human development. 

LIFTED “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC” is a project jointly co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). LIFTED aims to increase EAC, continental, and further bilateral trade with the EU in Trade in Services and Civil Society engagement in the framework of the AfCFTA for people-centred EAC integration. It is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat. 

DIGEAT “Digitalisation for East African Trade and Integration is a project financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). DIGEAT focuses on the existing Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for engineers to establish a digital data exchange mechanism to facilitate the mutual recognition of practicing engineers in the region. The mechanism will later serve as the best practice for other regulated professions. 

The Republic of South Sudan Signs the EAC Mutual Recognition Agreement for Engineers, Advancing Cross-Border Mobility (GIZ)

From 24 to 26 September 2024, the EAC hosted a joint planning meeting at its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, bringing together key regional stakeholders, policy experts, and civil society representatives to review the Regional Strategy for Women in Business for Socio-Economic Development and the EAC Youth Policy.

Facilitated by the EAC Secretariat's Gender Department in collaboration with the EAC-GIZ CSOs component, under the LIFTED Project, the East African Civil Society Organization Forum (EACSOF), and the East African Women in Business Platform (EAWiBP), the meeting marked a crucial step in the region's push for more inclusive growth towards empowering women and youth engagement in shaping policies that impact their futures.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Generose Minani, EAC’s Principal Gender and Community Development Officer, emphasised the importance of reviewing and updating the two policy documents in line with the directives from the Sectoral Council of Gender, Youth, Children, PWDs, Social Protection, and Community Development. She stressed that these policies need to address the changing dynamics of socio-economic development in the region and the challenges faced by women in business and youth to ensure they can meaningfully participate in the EAC integration process.

On her part, Ms. Joyce Kevin Kimaro, representing the EAC-GIZ CSO component, emphasised EAC-GIZ's support for women and youth in the EAC policy and decision-making process, including the review of the two policy documents. She encouraged all relevant stakeholders to contribute both technically and financially to the policy development process, following the roadmap developed and adopted by the meeting.

![IMG-20240925- 2.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/IMG_20240925_2_eec7f0414c.jpg)

Representatives from various organisations, including the East African Business Council (EABC), Africa Youth Trust (AYT), East African Youth Network (EAYN), Vision4Youth, and East African Child Rights, were present to collaborate on the development of a comprehensive roadmap for policy updates. The roadmap focused on ensuring the policies reflect the needs and aspirations of women and youth while remaining consistent with the goals of the wider EAC integration agenda.

The team outlined key deliverables for the policy development process, discussed resource mobilisation approaches for execution, established a coordination committee to work alongside consultants, and set a schedule for future meetings to ensure consistent progress.

Moving forward, the meeting agreed that the EAC Secretariat should take the lead in coordinating stakeholder engagement and participation in the policy and strategy review. Further, it should convene another stakeholder meeting to review the EAC Gender Strategic Plan for Gender, Youth, Children, Persons with Disability, Social Protection, and Community Development, ensuring that the region’s development is truly inclusive.

Additionally, it was agreed that the regional committee will work on fundraising initiatives to supplement available resources for the review and implementation of the EAC Youth Policy and the Regional Strategy for Women in Business. This commitment to resource allocation reflects a long-term vision of sustainable and impactful policy change.

**About LIFTED**

LIFTED “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC” is a project jointly co-financed by the European Union EU and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). LIFTED aims to increase EAC, continental, and further bilateral trade with the EU in Trade in Services and Civil Society engagement in the framework of the AfCFTA for people-centred EAC integration. It is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat.


EAC Convenes Key Stakeholders to Review Women and Youth Policies (GIZ)

On 30 September, the East African Community (EAC) and the European Union (EU) officially launched the EU-EAC Regional Co-creation Workshop on Digital Transformation in Arusha, Tanzania. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a human-centric approach to digital transformation in East Africa, leveraging technology and innovation to strengthen regional integration.

The two-day workshop, co-organised by the EAC Secretariat and the European Union and facilitated by the Digital for Development (D4D) Hub, marks a significant step towards shaping a digital economy package for East Africa. It brings together stakeholders from the EAC region, including delegates from all EAC Partner States, representatives from the Ministries of ICT and Cybersecurity Agencies, Ministries of Trade, Central Banks, e-Government Agencies and the EAC Secretariat. Additionally, the event includes participants from the European Union Delegation, as well as EU member states and their development agencies, such as GIZ, MFA/EstDev, and MFA/Expertise France.

As part of its digital transformation journey, the EAC initiated consultations with Partner States in 2022, further accelerating the momentum during the EAC Regional Digital Transformation Conference in October 2023. Held in collaboration with the European Union under a Team Europe Initiative, the conference identified seven strategic areas for engagement, aligned with the 6th EAC Development Strategy’s goal of fast-tracking digital transformation in East Africa. These priorities include; connectivity, data governance, e-governance/cybersecurity, e-commerce, ICT regulations, digital innovation, and digital skills. 

Based on these areas of engagement, a joint digital transformation roadmap was developed to guide the cooperation between EAC and Team Europe. Among the short-term actions proposed were initiatives to boost the data economy across borders as well as benchmarking and project development of green and secure data centres (data governance); establishing comprehensive electronic cross-border health services (e-governance/cybersecurity); development of systems to facilitate a cross-border e-payment system (e-commerce).

Building on these efforts, the EAC, with support from GIZ, developed the Digital Transformation Strategy, which has been agreed upon by Partner States and is expected to launch in November 2024. This co-creation workshop aims to review progress on digital development collaboration, support the formulation of the Safe Digital Boost for Africa (SDBA) initiative, and launch the appraisal process for a digital economy package tailored to East Africa. The SDBA initiative is expected to support the EAC in implementing the Digital Transformation Strategy.

![PHOTO-2024-09-30-11-38-57 (003).jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/PHOTO_2024_09_30_11_38_57_003_a210643b20.jpg)
_EAC DSG Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba and Mr Marc Stalmans, EU Head of Cooperation at the official opening of the EU-EAC Regional Co-creation Workshop on Digital Transformation. _

In her opening remarks, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba reflected on the EAC digital transformation journey, and the commitments made including developing the EAC Digital Transformation Strategy which has since been validated, laying a strong foundation for the Safe Digital Boost Africa (SDBA) Project.

 “This project is not just about technology; it is about the future success of our entire region. It represents a strategic move towards creating an interoperable regional digital market that will drive innovation, economic growth, and inclusive development. By fostering digital trade and integrating technology into key sectors such as e-commerce, data governance, and cybersecurity, we aim to transform lives across East Africa and create a competitive edge for our region in the global economy” she added. 
 
Speaking during the event, Marc Stalmans, EU Head of Cooperation, highlighted the success of previous engagements and the EU’s ongoing commitment to supporting digital transformation in East Africa. "Today’s event follows last year’s EU-EAC Regional Conference on Digital Transformation, which launched our joint efforts toward an inclusive, human-centric digital transformation. The discussions led to a Digital Roadmap with key milestones, shaping the Safe Digital Boost for Africa initiative, a program we are proud to finance that will support digital economy activities in areas such as e-commerce, e-payments, e-governance, and cybersecurity," he said.

D4D Hub Deputy Coordinator for Africa, Hussein Jaffar, emphasized the role of the D4D Hub as a platform to identify synergies and support the co-creation of joint European initiatives based on extensive bilateral and multilateral cooperation experience between Africa, the EU and its Member States. “Coordinated and simultaneous action in key areas of digital transformation is crucial in a dynamic region with a fast growth in digitalisation,” he said.

The conference hosted deep dive sessions on e-Commerce & Payment, e-Governance, cybersecurity and national-regional inter-linkages. The sessions facilitated a co-design approach and brought out key recommendations in the areas for collaboration.

Find the press release on the EAC Website [here](https://www.eac.int/press-releases/3179-eac-eu-convene-a-digital-transformation-co-creation-to-accelerate-east-africa-s-digital-economy).

Find more information on German Development Cooperation [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/who-we-are/about-german-development-cooperation). 

EAC-EU Convene a Digital Transformation Co-creation Workshop to Accelerate East Africa's Digital Economy (GIZ)

On 24 September 2024, the EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva, among other global leaders, showcased their commitment to Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) during a side event hosted by the International Peace Institute, the UN Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology, and the UN Development Programme in New York. Discussions held during the side event at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), emphasised the EAC's growing role in promoting DPI as a driver of sustainable development.

This follows the success of the East African Digital Leaders Forum on DPI, held in Kigali, Rwanda, in August 2024, which served as a key foundation for regional collaboration and knowledge exchange on advancing DPI in East Africa. The forum, hosted by the EAC Secretariat, the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), and supported by GIZ, focused on the challenges and opportunities in implementing DPI. Discussions highlighted the critical role of DPI in digital transformation, emphasising regional collaboration, inclusivity, and safeguards to build a safe and trustworthy digital ecosystem.

Further, experts from the UN's Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology (OSET) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) led sessions on DPI safeguards, discussing risks and strategies to ensure safe and inclusive digital infrastructures. Participants called for enhanced collaboration, interoperability, capacity building, and safeguards to protect human rights, privacy, and security. The forum concluded with a unified call to action for East African stakeholders to work together in realising the potential of DPI in the region.

![12.jpeg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/12_68300414c0.jpeg)
_Delegates at the East African Digital Leaders Forum on DPI, held in Kigali, Rwanda._

Now, at the UNGA 79 side event, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva outlined the EAC's vision for DPI as a cornerstone of regional integration and inclusive development. She emphasised the potential of DPI to create jobs, drive economic growth, and empower women and youth. Rwandan Minister of ICT Paula Ingabire reinforced these points, advocating for collaboration, digital inclusion, and ethical governance to harness the full potential of DPI.

Additionally, Anna Herken, CEO of GIZ, highlighted DPI's role in advancing financial inclusion, noting that secure digital payment systems could enable participation in the digital economy for 1.4 billion people who lack access to banks and payment systems globally. She also projected that DPI could create 4.5 million jobs and generate $2.6 billion in economic growth in East Africa by 2030.

She stressed that GIZ’s approach to DPI development is rooted in understanding the local context and collaborating closely with partner countries, local communities, and digital ecosystems to tailor solutions that meet specific needs. Herken underscored the significance of coordination and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, drawing parallels with the successful development of M-Pesa, which required collaboration between telecom companies, banks, regulators, and the public. “GIZ's strategy involves providing technical assistance and capacity building to ensure the sustainability of DPI initiatives,” she added.

![DPI pic 2.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/DPI_pic_2_d89583f931.jpg)
_EAC and GIZ Delegation at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)._

Other notable speakers included Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, who stressed the need for DPI safeguards to ensure trust and resilience in digital systems; Carla Montesi from the European Commission, who elaborated the EU's support for DPI initiatives through its Global Gateway strategy and partnerships with developing countries; and Amandeep Singh Gill, the UN Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology, who highlighted DPI's role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They reinforced the importance of international cooperation, multistakeholder engagement, and continuous innovation in advancing DPI globally.

Despite the EAC's progress in implementing digital payment systems, digital IDs, and e-Government services, challenges such as interoperability, regulatory hurdles, and the digital divide remain. The EAC is addressing these issues through partnerships with international organisations like the World Bank and GIZ, as well as investments in infrastructure, digital literacy, and innovation.

The EAC's proactive approach to DPI has positioned it as a global leader in leveraging technology for sustainable development. It is showcasing its achievements, sharing lessons learnt, and contributing to the global discourse on DPI. By prioritising inclusivity, collaboration, and safeguards, the EAC sets a positive example for the international community.

From the Kigali forum to UNGA 79 in New York, the EAC is demonstrating its commitment to building a digitally empowered and integrated region. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, the EAC is leading the charge toward a sustainable digital future that benefits all East Africans and inspires other regions to follow suit.


The East African Community Champions Digital Public Infrastructure at UNGA 79 – Paving the Way for a Digital Future in East Africa (GIZ)

The EAC and GIZ Lake Victoria Basin Integrated Water Resources Management (LVBC-IWRM) Programme provided vital support for the 13th annual Mara Day celebration, held on 15 September 2024, in Sekenani Town, Narok County, Kenya. Under the theme, "Flowing Forward Together: Conserving the Mara Basin Ecosystem for Sustainable Biodiversity and Climate Change Resilience" (Swahili: “Kwa Pamoja: Tuhifadhi Bonde la Mto Mara kwa Bionuai Endelevu na Ustahimilivu wa Tabianchi”), the event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting the Mara River Basin, one of East Africa's most vital ecosystems.

The celebration brought together high-level representatives from key ministries and agencies in both Tanzania and Kenya. Participants included the Tanzanian Ministry of Water, the Lake Victoria Basin Water Board, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, and the Ministry of Agriculture, among others. Kenyan counterparts represented the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, and the National Environmental Management Agency (NEMA), as well as local county governments from Narok, Nakuru, Bomet, and Migori.

The event focused on promoting stakeholder engagement and collaboration in conserving the Mara ecosystem, a critical waterway shared by Kenya and Tanzania. The day-long event showcased innovative conservation practices and included various activities such as a pre scientific conference, stakeholder displays, tree planting, and school children’s competitions. These activities highlighted the importance of environmental conservation, climate resilience, and the need for inclusive socio-economic development in managing natural resources.

Further, the events’ discussions focused on four key themes:

-	Environmental Conservation and Climate Resilience
-	Natural Resource Management for Inclusive Socio-Economic Development
-	Legal Justice, Gender Equality, and Governance Framework for Transboundary Cooperation
-	Knowledge, Innovation, and Technology in Conservation of the Mara Ecosystem

Delegates from Tanzania and Kenya—including researchers, conservationists, and government representatives—reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation, sharing innovations, and mobilising resources to preserve the Mara ecosystem. A strong message of transboundary collaboration emerged, with leaders from both countries coining the slogan, "Deepening and Widening Cooperation within the EAC." This reflects the shared recognition of the importance of cross-border efforts in managing and conserving the Mara Basin, which is essential for the livelihoods of millions of people and the biodiversity that depends on it.

The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to reviewing and implementing the transboundary integrated water management plan, aimed at conserving the Mara ecosystem while fostering closer cooperation between Tanzania and Kenya. This plan will serve as a key framework for maintaining the health of the Mara River Basin, promoting sustainable conservation practices, and ensuring resilience against climate change impacts.

The 13th Regional Mara Day celebration served as a platform for reinforcing the importance of regional cooperation, innovation, and shared responsibility in conserving the Mara River Basin. With support from the EAC-GIZ IWRM Programme, stakeholders from Tanzania and Kenya continue to push forward with commitments to ensure the sustainable conservation of this critical ecosystem while fostering socio-economic development and climate resilience.

**Background**

The joint EAC-GIZ Water Programme plays a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) and other key actors. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the programme focuses on promoting sustainable economic use and environmental protection of water resources in the EAC region, with a specific emphasis on the Lake Victoria Basin. By implementing Integrated Water Resources Management strategies, the programme supports regional cooperation, sustainable water management, and the resilience of ecosystems like the Mara River Basin.

Find more information on the EAC-GIZ LVBC IWRM programme [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/the-lake-victoria-basin-commission). 

EAC-GIZ IWRM Programme Supports the 13th Mara Day Celebration – Advancing Sustainable Conservation and Climate Resilience (GIZ)

The EAC Digital Skills for an Innovative East Africa (dSkills@EA) project, in collaboration with GIZ and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), kicked off its capacity building programme on 25 June 2024. This initiative, funded by the German government, seeks to equip young innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region with the tools and knowledge necessary to launch and scale their startups.

![Launch of the regional innovation network.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Launch_of_the_regional_innovation_network_376c4e7bec.jpg)

The Innovators Sprint Up Programme was initiated following a Training Needs Assessment that revealed a significant gap in business knowledge among participants. Only 22% of the participants had prior knowledge of business concepts, while the remaining 78% lacked the essential skills for entrepreneurial success. Based on these findings, the programme was designed to address the needs of the participants by offering modules such as Design Thinking, Business Model Canvas, Marketing, Financial Planning, and Investor Readiness.

This collaborative effort brought together EAC Partner States, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Further, the initiative is supported by a consortium of Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs), including E4Impact Foundation, Ennovate Ventures, Aclis, Koneta Hub, and Cinolu Hub, under the leadership of The Association of Startups and SME Enablers of Kenya (ASSEK).

"Digital skills are a cornerstone for driving economic growth and enhancing regional competitiveness within the East African Community. By fostering proficiency in digital tools and technologies, dSkills@EA is playing a pivotal role in transforming the economic and social fabric of East Africa," remarked David Roos, dSkills@EA project.

The programme focuses on several key training areas identified by young innovators. These include Business Modeling, Market Research, Financial Planning, Marketing and Customer Acquisition, Access to Funding, and Mentorship. The following modules have been crucial in shaping the participants' entrepreneurial journeys:

**1. Design Thinking**

Design Thinking is a foundational module in the programme, particularly for early-stage innovators. Many participants initially struggled to understand their users’ needs. This module taught them to empathise with their target customers, developing solutions that are tailored to real-world challenges. Sankale Olkiado, Founder of LaGrange, noted, "For the last two days, I have gained a lot in Design Thinking. It is a very impactful module that has helped me streamline my startup in such a profound way."

**2. Business Model Canvas (BMC)**

Understanding how to structure a viable business model is crucial for any startup's success. This module helped participants redesign and refine their business models to ensure financial stability and scalability. "Following the BMC training, I had to make a tonne of changes and rethink the idea I formerly presented and come up with something more workable," said Charles Rubangakene, a participant.

**3. Marketing**

Effective marketing is essential for reaching customers and promoting a business. Participants learnt how to position their businesses, create compelling value propositions, and communicate effectively with their target audiences. “The Marketing Module has made me visualise my business from a more detailed perspective,” noted Derick Kainan Omona.

![Picture1.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Picture1_e829fb424d.jpg)

Furthermore, the Innovators Sprint Up Programme has reached over 300 young innovators in East Africa. These entrepreneurs have participated in intensive boot camps where they refined their business ideas and prototypes. The programme serves as a catalyst for job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the region's economic growth and development.

By August 2024, the programme had successfully hosted four industry mentorship sessions, offering young innovators the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and gain practical tools for business success. These sessions covered topics like branding, sales, leadership management, and intellectual property, providing participants with a well-rounded entrepreneurial skill set.

"This has been a very powerful and impactful session. Growth indeed is a seed-cutting process," remarked Moses Kazimoto, President of the University of Dar es Salaam.

**The Impact of the Programme**

The programme has had a profound impact on the lives and careers of many young innovators. Nalule Grace Nakabuye from Rwanda, for example, has significantly elevated her business, Apollo’s Irembo, thanks to the knowledge and skills she acquired through the programme. Similarly, many other participants have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow.

One participant, Kimonyi Esther Nthenya from Nairobi, Kenya, shared her experience: "I joined dSkills@EA with zero know-how of what entrepreneurship entails. The Innovators Sprint Up Programme has helped bring to life a startup entrepreneur who is now fully equipped with entrepreneurship knowledge and skills."

Participants in the program gained advanced business skills through modules like Sales and Negotiation, Financial Accounting, Commercialisation, and Intellectual Property Protection. These modules equipped them to maximise profits, manage finances, bring innovations to market, and protect their ideas.

The dSkills@EA Innovators Sprint Up Programme is playing a crucial role in empowering the next generation of East African entrepreneurs. By equipping young innovators with the skills and knowledge necessary to launch and grow their businesses, the programme is driving job creation, fostering innovation, and contributing to the region's overall economic development. The collaboration between the EAC, GIZ, IUCEA, and other partners ensures that the impact of this programme will be felt across the East African region for years to come.

Find more information about the dSkills@EA Innovators Sprint Up Programme [here](https://mailchi.mp/0d858bd0a8b7/assek-newsletter-july-17776568).
Find more information on the dSkills@EA project [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/digital-skills-for-an-innovative-east-african-industry). 

Empowering East African Innovators: The dSkills@EA Innovators Sprint Up Programme (GIZ)

Regional integration under the East African Community (EAC) holds vast opportunities for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to engage and benefit from East African integration. This is the clear message of a panel discussion that was held on 10th September 2024 between representatives of EAC, the East African Civil Society Organizations Forum (EACSOF), the European Union Delegation to Tanzania, and the development agency GIZ. The panel took place as part of the Tanzanian CSO week, hosted by the Foundation for Civil Society from 9 to 13 September in Arusha, Tanzania.

The discussion was held under the theme of **Civil Society Organization’s Engagement in the EAC Integration Process** and attended by more than 170 representatives from various Tanzanian civil society organizations and the public sector. It explored the role and status of CSO engagement in the EAC integration process and thus provided a crucial step towards a more inclusive and participatory EAC integration process – ensuring that the voices of civil society are heard and their contributions are recognised. Furthermore, the lively discussion provided a platform for debating the challenges faced by CSOs, the opportunities available for their engagement, ways in which CSOs could facilitate and advocate for citizen-led integration, and actionable recommendations that enhance their participation in the regional integration process with a special focus on regional economic integration.

Representing the EAC Secretariat, Mr. Charles Omusana, the Principal Economist for Investment and Private Sector Promotion, highlighted that the current EAC treaty provided for people-centred and market-driven process and had directives on the involvement of CSOs, the private sector, and other interest groups in the integration agenda. “This directive is embodied in the Consultative Dialogue Framework (CDF), which includes platforms such as the Secretary General’s Forum used for engagement between EAC and CSOs,” Mr. Omusana added and called upon stakeholders to utilise the platforms to enhance CSO participation.

Speaking during the session, the Head of Economics and Governance, European Union Delegation to Tanzania and EAC, Ms. Karina Dzialowska, reflected on lessons from the many years of the EU integration process, including the legislative reforms that were spearheaded by the citizens and the need for equipping CSOs with relevant tools for constructive engagements. “Looking back at the EU integration process, we cannot underestimate the opportunities, disruptions, and impacts that regional integration reforms can accelerate” she urged CSOs to actively participate in EAC policy reforms and decision-making processes by utilising the available platforms and becoming central players in the integration process. 

![2 CSO Week 3.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/2_CSO_Week_3_f20966f7aa.jpg)

On her remark, the CEO of EACSOF, Ms. Lilian Alex, reiterated the need to expand the civil space in Tanzania and encouraged CSOs to prioritise the regional integration agenda, reminding them of their role in the people-centred EAC integration process given their geographical coverage and nature of their work. “The Civil Society voice is shrinking in Tanzania, and there is more work to be done on national awareness for a more inclusive EAC integration process,” she added.

From the GIZ perspective, Mr. Marius Weist, the Component Lead, Organisation Development and Outreach observed that GIZ has been supporting the EAC integration on multiple fronts, including CSO engagement, with a special focus on enhancing legislative and policy frameworks to widen the space for CSOs and increasing participation of women and youth in decision-making processes within the region. “Through the Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and Civil Society Organizations in the East African Community (LIFTED) project, GIZ has availed resources for CSO-led innovations with a call for applications currently ongoing,” he said.

The debate underscored the importance of a people-centred integration process with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to working together to enhance the participation and meaningful engagement of CSOs in EAC decision-making processes.

Additionally, to the panel discussion, a session on **National and Regional Policy and Legislative Framework for Tanzanian CSO Engagement in the EAC Integration** is schedule for 12th September 2024. It is organised by GIZ in partnership with EAC and EACSOF as part of the implementation of the EU-cofunded LIFTED project and will bring together key stakeholders from Tanzanian CSO networks, policymakers, and the EAC Secretariat to discuss the national and regional policy and legislative framework for CSO engagement in the EAC integration.  
 
The CSO Week serves as a dynamic platform for exhibitions, discussions, networking, and outreach events. It provides a space for CSOs to converge, exchange ideas, and collectively address pressing issues vital to Tanzania's future. The EU’s support for civil society engagement in regional economic integration via the LIFTED project and other initiatives aims to foster a more inclusive and participatory EAC integration process by ensuring that the voices of civil society are heard and their contributions recognised.

**About LIFTED**
  
LIFTED “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC” is a project jointly co-financed by the European Union EU, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). LIFTED aims to increase EAC, continental and further bilateral trade with EU in Trade in Services and Civil Society engagement in the framework of the (AfCFTA) for people-centred EAC integration. It is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat.


EAC, EACSOF, and EU Highlight Opportunities for CSO Engagement in Regional Economic Integration (GIZ)  

The African Cashew Alliance (ACA) has opened an online application for Editions 19 and 20 of the Cashew Master Training Program (MTP) with a special call for East African participants. 

With funding support from the European Union (EU), the Organization of African Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ), the 19th edition of the MTP will for the first time be held in East Africa. MTP 20 will meanwhile take place in West Africa. 

Application is open to people working in the private and public sectors, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and development partners promoting cashew value chains in Africa and beyond.  The applicants must be mandated by their host institution and will go through a transparent selection process in line with fixed criteria.

Interested applicants can proceed to https://mtp.cashewknowledgehub.com/ to read about the MTP, the terms and conditions, and register. 

**About the MTP**

The Master Training Programme aims to increase theoretical knowledge and practical skills of African cashew experts along the value chain and consequently to further promote the competitiveness of the African cashew sector. It is an intensive three-week training held in three different sessions involving both classroom and practical sessions on various aspects of the Cashew value chain ranging from production and processing to economics, cashew market dynamics, marketing and financing mechanisms, and cross-cutting issues like facilitation skills, negotiation skills, decision-making, gender, among others. The MTP is implemented by the ACA. with support from the GIZ/MOVE/ComCashew Project, Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG), the Conseil du Coton et de l’ Anacarde (CCA), The East Africa Community (EAC), GIZ Support to East African Integration (SEAMPEC II), the Consultative International Cashew Council (CICC), the Cashewnut Board of Tanzania (CBT), and the Institute of Nuts of Mozambique (INCAJU).

**Training Location**

MTP 19 will take place in Mozambique, Tanzania, and Kenya, while MTP 20 will be held in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana by the ACA with expert support from GIZ/MOVE, MOFA, CRIG, and other national institutions and companies involved in the cashew sector. The working languages will be English, French, and Portuguese (with translation service).

**Timelines**

The 19 and 20 Editions of the MTP are expected to start in January 2025 and end by July 2025. Specific timelines for these Editions will be communicated to successful applicants. 

**Application deadline** 

Online application for the 19 and 20 Editions of the MTP end on 30 November 2024. 

For more information, contact: mtp@africancashewalliance.org

![Registration Launch 19--East - West Africa-EN.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Registration_Launch_19_East_West_Africa_EN_c5f0eed6bf.jpg)

Photo: ©GIZ/MOVE-ComCashew & ACA/ MTP17

Cashew Master Training Programme: Online Application for Next Editions Opened (GIZ)

The East African Community is in the final stages of consultation for the EAC Regional Digital Transformation Strategy 2024–2030, aimed at driving economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development through digital technologies across the region.

The EAC has been proactive in its digital transformation journey, with initial consultation with Partner States in 2022 and further increasing the momentum at the EAC Regional Digital Transformation Conference, held in October 2023, in collaboration with the European Union, through a Team Europe Initiative. The strategy aims at leveraging the endorsement of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol and the AU Digital Transformation Strategy to enhance connectivity, foster a digital economy, and promote sustainable development.

Key areas forming the EAC Digital Transformation strategy include digital connectivity and infrastructure, digital skills and innovation, the digital economy, a harmonised legal and policy environment, emerging technologies, and digital public infrastructure.

In June and July 2024, the EAC, in partnership with GIZ, will conduct national consultations across all eight EAC Partner States, followed by regional validation workshops. The final strategy will be presented at the ICT Ministerial Conference on the sidelines of the Transform Africa Summit on August 28, 2024. The EAC's commitment to digital innovation aims to position the region as a leader in digital transformation, foster inclusive growth, and advance towards a unified EAC Single Digital Market.

![Image (11).jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Image_11_b4ec7bc0b1.jpg)

June 30th, 2024

EAC Secretariat Accelerates Efforts Towards Comprehensive Regional Digital Transformation Strategy (GIZ)