After three years of transformative work in strengthening digital skills in the EAC, the Digital Skills for an Innovative East African Industry (dSkills@EA) Project has successfully concluded.

The dSkills@EA project, implemented by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) and GIZ with support from the Federal German Government, has significantly impacted digital skills development in the region.

With over 4,000 young East Africans trained, the initiative has fostered a thriving cooperation ecosystem, engaging 300+ private sector partners and 100 universities, building a solid foundation for the future of digital transformation in East Africa.

Beyond these numbers are real people and real impact:

- Rebecca from Tanzania is helping farmers grow better crops and feed more families,
- Keith from Uganda developed a tool to detect strokes earlier that will save lives and
- Malek from South Sudan founded an ICT school, equipping young people with digital skills.

Ivan Koojo, former student of the Centre of Excellence for the Innovative East African Industry (CENIT@EA) shared his thoughts about the impact of the project: “I am proud to be part of the team behind Kayoola EVS, Africa’s first electric bus, built in Uganda. Kiira Motors retained me after my internship. This is the direct impact of investing in East Africa’s human capital. Thank you to the German people, the EAC secretariat, and all the sponsors for believing in us. Your investment is not wasted - we are applying what we learned.”

The dSkills@EA initiative has strengthened digital skills for employment and innovation among young professionals, students, and entrepreneurs. It has provided entrepreneurship support, short-term digital skills training and enhanced the MSc program in Embedded and Mobile Systems at CENIT@EA, hosted at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST). With 164 master’s students enrolled, 124 fully funded scholarships and a 90% graduate employment rate, the programme has laid the foundation for digital transformation in East Africa. Notably, one in five graduates is now teaching at a university, passing on their expertise to the next generation.

![collage 3.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/collage_3_97d554b6d9.jpg)

H.E. Veronica Nduva, Secretary General of the EAC, highlighted the importance of scaling up an inclusive digital transformation effort: “AI and digital transformation are game changers for the future of East Africa. As the first female Secretary-General of the EAC, I have a vision: A future where every young woman can be skilled to lead in technology and innovation. Through our partnership with Germany, we have skilled thousands of young East Africans in digital technologies and worked with hundreds of businesses and universities to create innovations. But we want to go further! That is why we are now building the EAC Regional AI Alliance. “

Reflecting on Germany’s long-standing partnership with the EAC, Hon. Thomas Terstegen, German Ambassador to Tanzania and the EAC, remarked: "Germany has been a close partner of the EAC for 25 years, supporting regional integration. Through dSkills@EA, we have equipped thousands of young East Africans with digital skills. The impact is clear. Graduates are innovating, teaching, and driving the community. But we are not stopping here. We are now investing in the EAC AI Regional Alliance to ensure East Africa benefits fully from the potential of the digital economy."

![Graduands at NMAISR.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Graduands_at_NMAISR_8afcdf1cb0.jpg)

Hon. Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, Executive Secretary of IUCEA, stated: “The success of dSkills@EA demonstrates the transformative power of demand-driven digital education. By aligning the academic curriculum with industry needs, we have significantly enhanced graduate employability and fostered innovation and entrepreneurship. Our commitment to digital skills development continues not only with the launch of the EAC AI Regional Alliance but also working with our over 170 higher institutions of learning to use this module as a use case.”
Building on the success of dSkills@EA, the EAC AI Regional Alliance will focus on advancing AI research and innovation through regional collaboration, integrate AI into higher education, develop a harmonised regional strategy, and strengthen academia industry partnerships.

David Roos, Project Director of dSkills@EA, highlighted the importance of digital transformation for economic integration: "dSkills@EA demonstrates the strength of collaboration between governments, academia, and industry. By equipping thousands of young people with future-proof skills, we have laid the groundwork for a thriving digital ecosystem in East Africa. The EAC AI Regional Alliance will build on this success, expanding AI infrastructure and regional capabilities to secure East Africa’s place in the digital future."

**Background**

The EAC dSkills@EA project, initiated by the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat and German Development Cooperation, aimed to strengthen employment and innovation-related digital skills among young people in EAC Partner States. Implemented by IUCEA and GIZ, the project enhanced the quality of Master's programmes and study-related offerings at CENIT@EA, delivered demand-driven short courses, and supported entrepreneurship and innovation through a network of innovation hubs, universities, and industry. The success of this project has been achieved through partners, including EAC institutions, NM-AIST, the German Academic Exchange Service, University of Oldenburg, the EAC university consortium, and industry partners.

Find more information on dSkills@EA [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/sector/education-and-training). 

Empowering East Africa’s Digital Future: dSkills@EA Lays the Groundwork for the EAC Regional AI Alliance

Through trade of foods of animal origin, such as meat, fish, or milk products, foodborne diseases can spread and harm human health and economic productivity in the EAC.

According to estimates from the World Health Organization, over 91 million people fall ill from foodborne diseases in Africa, making it the continent with the highest disease burden per population. The economic burden of foodborne diseases exceeds USD 110 billion annually in low- and middle-income countries due to lost productivity and healthcare expenses.

Ensuring food is free from microbiological, chemical, or physical hazards is therefore key to protecting consumers’ health and fostering economic growth and productivity.

From 26 to 27, the EAC, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development via GIZ, facilitated a regional expert workshop to discuss better approaches to improve food safety in East Africa.

In this workshop regional experts from the EAC Secretariat, EAC Partner States working in human and animal health sectors and standards, along with representatives from the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), validated a study on the quality of inspections of foods of animal origin in the EAC. 

![EAC Stakeholder Validation Meeting EAC FS Baseline Study_Group Work.jpeg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/EAC_Stakeholder_Validation_Meeting_EAC_FS_Baseline_Study_Group_Work_a7429f92a2.jpeg)

The study identified several key challenges in food inspections, including limited human resource capacities, insufficient coordination between sectors responsible for food safety, i.e., information sharing on traded foods and animal diseases, and inadequate infrastructure for detecting microbial hazards. 

Based on these findings, the study suggests an assessment matrix for EAC Partner States to help evaluate the quality of inspections for commonly traded foods of animal origin and their potential microbial risks.  

“As animals and humans cross our borders, pathogens spread across the region. Through safe food products, we can reduce infectious disease risks and enhance health and economic growth in East Africa,” emphasised Mr. Benjamin Murkomen, Head of Division, Port Health Services, Ministry of Health, Republic of Kenya, and Chair of the workshop.  

Following the validation of the study, workshop participants submitted recommendations to further enhance inspection capacities for most traded animal-sourced foods with microbial risks. Accordingly, as a next step, the EAC Secretariat under the 'Support to Pandemic Preparedness in the EAC (PanPrep) project will support harmonisation of inspection guidelines across the region, design needs-based food inspection trainings and upgrade infrastructure for food inspections, with the overall goal to protect the health of East Africans. 

“Adequate, nutritious, and safe food is our goal. Ensuring food safety requires the collaboration of many sectors and disciplines, including animal and human health, agriculture, and the environment, following a One Health approach,” highlighted Dr. Sam Okuthe of the FAO Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases. 

Find more information about the PanPrep project [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/support-to-pandemic-preparedness-in-the-eac-region-pan-prep).

Enhancing Food Safety in East Africa – Regional Experts Validate the Study on Quality of Food Inspections in EAC (GIZ)

Healthcare professionals from across the EAC Partner States recently convened in Mwanza, Tanzania, for an intensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) training. Organised by the EAC Secretariat through the GIZ-supported Pandemic Preparedness Project, the training aimed to enhance regional capacity to respond to outbreaks in Marburg, Ebola, and Mpox.

The training was initiated following a request from Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) for emergency support in response to the Marburg Virus Disease outbreak. Over 60 healthcare professionals from FBO-based health facilities, along with health experts from the Ministries of Health in Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and South Sudan, participated in the programme, which was conducted in collaboration with the German Epidemic Preparedness Team (SEEG) and Africa CDC.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Mwanza Regional Medical Officer Dr Jessica Lebbah stressed the urgency of regional preparedness. “Recent outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania serve as stark reminders of our vulnerability. These events highlight the need for coordinated action.”

The EAC Principal Health Officer, Dr. Eric Nzeyimana, emphasised the crucial role of faith-based healthcare providers, particularly in rural areas. “They are often the first line of defence in detecting and responding to outbreaks. Their involvement in pandemic preparedness cannot be overlooked.” 

Norman Nausch, Head of SEEG, underscored the importance of IPC in protecting healthcare workers. “Proper IPC measures are essential to slowing disease transmission and safeguarding frontline personnel.”

![pan prep 3.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/pan_prep_3_3c891f1e63.jpg)

The eight-day training was divided into two sessions. The first, lasting five days, was a Training of Trainers (ToT) programme for 22 senior healthcare providers. The second, spanning three days, covered 40 healthcare workers. The course combined theoretical instructions with practical exercises and interactive discussions.

Participants were trained on IPC frameworks, standard operating procedures, and key practices, including hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental cleaning, waste management, clinical screening for Mpox, Marburg, and Ebola, and risk communication strategies. Trainers from Africa CDC, the EAC Rapid Deployable Expert (RDE) pool, SEEG, and GIZ facilitated the sessions.

Dr Joseph Ekong, a participant in the training from Uganda, noted that “This course has significantly enhanced my understanding of IPC, equipping me with essential knowledge and skills. It has bridged knowledge gaps and strengthened my ability to train others.” To ensure long-term impact, participants recommended follow-up refresher courses, continuous mentorship, and stronger partnerships for sustainable IPC funding.

The Mwanza IPC training builds on previous efforts to enhance outbreak response in the region. In September 2024, SEEG, in collaboration with the EAC RDE pool and local partners, conducted similar training in DRC’s Bukavu, South Kivu, for 66 participants, focusing on PPE use, biomedical waste management, and outbreak coordination. This session was followed by Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) training in Bukavu and Goma (North Kivu) in November 2024, equipping nearly 100 healthcare workers and community leaders with strategies to manage Mpox outbreaks. These initiatives reflect ongoing collaboration between the EAC, Africa CDC, GIZ, and SEEG to enhance regional preparedness.

The EAC Rapidly Deployable Expert (RDE) pool, established through GIZ support, is a specialised network of trained professionals from across EAC Partner States, designed to provide rapid support during public health emergencies. During the Mwanza and DRC training sessions, RDE pool members served as trainers, sharing their expertise in IPC and RCCE. Their involvement strengthened the quality of the training and reinforced regional collaboration. By leveraging the skills of RDE professionals, EAC continues to build a robust mechanism for responding to health crises and mitigating the impact of infectious disease outbreaks.

As part of the Mwanza Training Program, the EAC, in partnership with GIZ, donated essential IPC supplies to the Mwanza Regional Medical Officer. The donation included handwashing stations, buckets, disposable overalls, sprayers, goggles, masks, gloves, and aprons to improve infection control in healthcare settings.

![pan prep 4.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/pan_prep_4_360e0d0da9.jpg)

With infectious disease threats on the rise in East Africa, sustained investment in IPC training and cross-border cooperation remains crucial. By strengthening regional preparedness and response mechanisms, East Africa is better positioned to tackle future outbreaks with resilience and efficiency.

Find more information on the PanPrep project [here](https://www.eacgermany.org/projects/support-to-pandemic-preparedness-in-the-eac-region-pan-prep). 

EAC Strengthens Outbreak Preparedness with Regional Infection Prevention Training (GIZ)

On 17 March 2025, the EAC in collaboration with the East African Business Council (EABC), and with support from GIZ through the LIFTED project, convened private sector leaders from associations across all eight EAC Partner States to validate proposals for the regional policy advocacy agenda.

The Regional Policy Advocacy Agenda which was developed after successful national consultations assessing the state of services trade liberalisation, aims to eliminate barriers to Trade in Services and accelerate economic growth across the region.

Key recommendations in the policy include the establishment of an institutionalised dialogue mechanism between the private sector and governments to enhance policy engagement and remove regulatory barriers. With services contributing between 40-55% of the EAC’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the sector is vital for the region’s economic transformation.

Speaking during the event, Mr. Stuart Mwesigwa, Goodwill Ambassador of the EABC, emphasised its importance, stating, “The services sector holds immense potential in fostering sustainable development, attracting investment, and creating jobs. Its full liberalisation will unlock opportunities for millions of businesses and professionals across the region.” 

![EABC 3.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/EABC_3_dc0e74f95a.jpg)

On his part, Mr. Sofian Dahmani from the EU Delegation highlighted that services accounted for approximately 70% of the EU’s GDP and 33% of total trade within Europe. He noted that LIFTED – a project jointly co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), will support services liberalisation, expand EAC exports, and strengthen trade ties with the EU.

“We are committed to assisting the EAC in removing barriers to trade in services, strengthening private sector advocacy, and enhancing competitiveness,” Dahmani stated, reiterating the EU’s role in capacity-building initiatives that facilitate market access.

![EABC2.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/EABC_2_090126e972.jpg)

From GIZ perspective, Ms. Estella Aryada, Component Lead for Trade in Services, echoed this commitment, highlighting the transformative role of services in driving other industries. 

“Sectors such as marketing, design and logistics fuel innovation, manufacturing and exports, while health and education services contribute to human capital development,” she noted. Ms. Aryada reaffirmed GIZ’s commitment to supporting structured private sector engagement to streamline regulatory frameworks across the region.

On her remark, Ms. Annette Kenganzi, EAC Senior Export Promotion Officer, expressed optimism that the proposed dialogue mechanism will be integrated into both national and regional trade committees, feeding into Ministerial discussions at the Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance, and Investment. 

“This mechanism will strengthen the implementation of the EAC Trade in Services Strategy and drive forward crucial policy reforms,” she added.

The EABC Regional Policy Advocacy Agenda on Trade in Services serves as a blueprint to enhance the private sector’s role in shaping services trade policy. It aims to improve data collection and market intelligence to support informed policy decisions and seek to address investment barriers, taxation challenges, and immigration restrictions, particularly those limiting the movement of skilled professionals within the region.

![EABC 4.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/EABC_4_fadbe36e90.jpg)

Several sector-specific recommendations are being considered to strengthen services trade. For instance, the accelerated implementation of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) will ease the movement of professionals. In the communications sector, reducing costs and improving affordability will enhance digital trade. Meanwhile, harmonizing banking regulations will facilitate smoother financial transactions across member states.

To further regional integration, the EAC has committed to negotiating five additional service sectors: energy services, environmental services, health and social services, construction and related engineering services, and recreation, cultural, and sporting services. Additionally, the agenda also prioritises developing private sector positions for each sector to ensure their interests are well represented during the liberalisation process.

The validation of these proposals marks a significant step toward creating a more competitive and integrated EAC services market. With the right policy frameworks in place, the private sector stands to benefit from improved market access, increased investment, and enhanced economic cooperation. The collaboration signals a strong commitment to advancing regional trade in services for sustainable economic growth.


EAC Private Sector Leaders Approve Proposals to Boost Trade in Services (GIZ)

On 17 March 2025, the EAC, in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU), launched the EAC4Nature Project, a transformative three-year initiative designed to enhance sustainable natural resource management across the region.

The project, titled in full “Support to Management of Nature-Based Solutions with the East African Community” will run from January 2025 to June 2028 with a total funding of 8 million euros (5.5 million Euros from BMZ and 2. 5 million Euros from the EU).

Co-financed by BMZ and the EU and implemented by GIZ, the EAC4Nature Project will focus on three key areas, namely: (i) Integrating Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into EAC policies and regulations while ensuring gender-sensitive approaches. (ii) Strengthening the institutional capacities of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC), Lake Tanganyika Authority (LTA), and Lake Kivu and Rusizi River Basin Authority (ABAKIR) for effective NbS planning and coordination; and (iii) Enhancing information management to support climate-resilient water and environmental solutions.

Speaking during the official launch of the project in Entebbe, Uganda on behalf of the EAC Secretary General, H.E Veronica Nduva, the Executive Director of the Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA), Eng. Richard Gatete, reaffirmed the EAC’s commitment to integrating nature-based solutions into regional climate policies and frameworks.

“As we launch the EAC4Nature Project today, let us remember that this is not just a project; it is a call to action. It is a call to work together, across borders and sectors, to protect our natural wealth, build climate resilience and secure a sustainable future for the people of East Africa,” said Eng. Gatete.

![WhatsApp Image 2025-03-17 at 10.45.58 AM.jpeg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Whats_App_Image_2025_03_17_at_10_45_58_AM_b9ed1d5afd.jpeg)

Eng. Gatete hailed the invaluable support provided by the BMZ and the EU, adding that such partnerships had been instrumental in driving transformative change across the region.

Eng. Gatete said the project will promote the use of Nature-Based Solutions to provide a transformative pathway to address climate change while enhancing biodiversity and improving livelihoods.

“Through the EAC4Nature Project, the region seeks to foster stronger partnerships between regional institutions, development partners, and communities to jointly safeguard ecosystems’’, added Eng. Gatete.

Julia Kronberg, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Tanzania, emphasised Germany’s strong partnership with the EAC in advancing climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, public health, trade and regional integration.

“Germany has an interest to build strong international partnerships to promote nature-based solutions and even more so nature-based resilience. We are proud to collaborate with the EAC and EU in addressing a triangle of climate change, environmental pollution and biodiversity loss focusing on fresh-water nature-based solutions in and for East Africa”, said Mrs Kronberg.

Mrs Julia Kronberg was represented by Mrs Alicia Van den Boom, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Uganda.

![5 (1).jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/5_1_b4d168173f.jpg)

On behalf of the EU, Mr Pierre-Yves Renaud, Manager for Energy, Water, Sanitation, and Environment at the EU Delegation to Burundi, reaffirmed the EU’s long-standing commitment to sustainable water management and regional cooperation in the Great Lakes Region.

“Tanganyika Kivu Water Management (TAKIWAMA) reflects the EU’s dedication to environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and transboundary water governance. We are proud to support regional institutions and partners in their efforts to protect water resources, enhance livelihoods, and advance regional integration,” said Mr Renaud.

In her remarks, Eng. Coletha Ruhamya, the Deputy Executive Director of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) and Mr Kwibisa Linywalii, the Director for Monitoring and Evaluation of Lake Tanganyika Authority (LTA), both underscored the importance of the project, highlighting its potential to enhance data-driven decision-making, strengthen institutional cooperation and foster innovative approaches to managing the shared water resources and ecosystems within the region.

On his part, Mr. Jean Paul Nyembo Mwamba, the Coordinating Director from Lake Kivu and Rusizi River Basin Authority (ABAKIR) said that the project was not just about conservation but also integrating nature-based solutions in the regional policies, frameworks, and practices to ensure sustainable natural resource management and climate resilience.

The EAC4Nature Project builds on the 6th EAC Development Strategy, which prioritises transboundary environmental management and climate resilience. It also aligns with the EAC Gender Mainstreaming Policy and IUCN standards for Nature-Based Solutions, ensuring that women, youth, and vulnerable communities actively participate in project implementation and decision-making. 

Find more information about the EAC4Nature Project [here](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/EAC_4_Nature_FACTSHEET_final_1_ae5aea2a15.pdf). 









EAC Unveils its EAC4Nature Project to Foster Sustainable Natural Resources Management in the Region (GIZ)

On 4 March 2025, the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat in partnership with the East African Civil Society Organizations' Forum (EACSOF) and GIZ through the LIFTED project, convened the first Civil Society Organisations (CSO) Technical Working Group meeting. This long-awaited two-day meeting held at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, follows the successful East Africa Secretary General’s Forum held in December 2024 in Nairobi. 

During the meeting attended by all the 8 EAC Partner States representative, the Regional Civil Societies underscored the importance of their involvement, if the East African Community (EAC) policies are to be people-centered.
 
"Engaging Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) is crucial for making the EAC's policies truly inclusive and responsive to the needs of our communities," said Chairman of the East African Civil Society Organizations’ Forum (EACSOF), Mr. Edmund Yakani in his message to the Technical Working Group (TWG).

On her remarks, the EAC Secretary General, Ms. Veronica Nduva, warmly welcomed the TWG meeting, calling it a pivotal step in fostering a collaborative environment where diverse voices can shape regional policies.
 
"We are committed to incorporating the valuable insights and recommendations from this meeting into our strategic framework," Ms. Nduva emphasized.

![TWG photo 2.JPG](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/TWG_photo_2_a6e963cd45.JPG)

EACSOF Executive Director, Ms. Lilian Alex, praised the inaugural CSOs technical working group meeting, expressing gratitude for the partners’ support and advocating for more frequent engagements.

"Regular interactions like this are vital for maintaining momentum and ensuring that the integration process benefits all stakeholders," she noted.

As part of its ongoing initiatives, the EAC Secretariat received various recommendations from the previous CSOs Secretary General’s Forum under the Consultative Dialogue Framework. The framework provides a platform for the private sector, CSOs, and other interest groups to actively contribute to EAC policy formulation and integration processes.

![TWG photo 3.JPG](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/TWG_photo_3_ab071c889c.JPG)

Key recommendations presented by CSOs to the EAC Secretariat included measures for addressing the shrinking civil space to ensure smooth operations of CSOs in the region. The discussions also centered on issues of peace, progress, and prosperity for the EAC and individual Partner States. The visa and borderless community topics were particularly prominent, given the treaty's clear position on free movement.

The TWG meeting's role is to refine these recommendations and prepare them for further review by the EAC’s policy and programmatic bodies. 

The TWG meetings are supported by the Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services (LIFTED) - a project jointly co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat.


EAC Urged to Engage CSOs for Inclusive Policy Development (GIZ)

The East African Community (EAC), a regional intergovernmental organisation of eight Partner States prioritized the Common Market as the second regional Integration milestone of the Community since 2010, in line with the provisions of the EAC Treaty. 

As part of this efforts, the "Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC **(LIFTED)**" a project co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), aim to increase Trade in Services (TiS) by among other measures, facilitating the mutual recognition of professional qualifications within East Africa.

Even with market access commitments in professional service markets, lack of recognition of foreign qualifications and experience in EAC Partner States remains a core impediment to trade in professional services, hindering the free movement of experts across borders either in their capacity as individuals or as professional firms. 

The East African Community (EAC) is committed to promoting regional integration and cooperation, including the harmonization of professional standards and regulations. This includes the field of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), which is rapidly growing with significant implications on economic development and social progress. 

However, there are currently multiple ways that ICT related engineering professions are classified and regulated across the EAC Partner States, which can create barriers to the cross-border provision of ICT services and hinder the development of a regional ICT market. 

To address the gaps, GIZ Tanzania/EAC is inviting interested consulting firms from EAC region to assess the current state of classification and registration of ICT-related professions in the EAC. The assessment aims to identify similarities and differences in classification and registration, regulatory frameworks, as well as provide recommendations on regulations and best practices. 

Interested firm should request for detailed tender documents from **tz_procurement@giz.de** no later than **10th March, 2025** and submit technical and financial proposals by email no later than **17th March, 2025**.


Invitation: Consultancy to Conduct a Comparative Assessment on Classification and Registration of ICT Related Professions (GIZ)

On 6 March 2025, hundreds of tourism stakeholders attending the International Tourism Bourse (ITB) Berlin, witnessed the unveiling of the **"Visit East Africa – Feel the Vibe"** brand. This groundbreaking initiative aims to collectively promote the East African Community (EAC) as a single tourist destination.
 
Various stakeholders welcomed the move, recognizing it as a significant step toward enhancing regional tourism while ensuring the sustainable tourism practices.
 
Speaking at the event, the Chief Guest, Hon. John Ololtuaa, Chair of the Sectoral Council on Tourism and Wildlife Management and the Principal Secretary of Kenya’s State Department for Tourism, emphasized the importance of striking a balance between competition and collaboration among EAC Partner States.

He noted that while the region offers similar tourism experiences, embracing the spirit of "co-opetition", a model where countries engage in healthy competition while actively cooperating, will be key to maximizing East Africa’s collective tourism potential.
 
Hon. Ololtuaa also highlighted that the EAC has developed a Common Classification Criteria for tourism accommodation establishments, restaurants, and conference facilities as well as minimum standards for various tourism service providers. These initiatives ensure uniform quality standards across the region, enhancing visitor experiences and boosting East Africa’s competitiveness as a premier tourism hub.
 
 
![KEYTOU~1.JPE](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/KEYTOU_1_626c01830d.JPE)
 
Representing the EAC Secretary General, the Head of the EAC Secretariat Tourism and Wildlife Department, Mr. Simon Kiarie, underscored the Secretariat’s commitment to strengthening the region’s tourism sector. Mr. Kiarie highlighted the development of an online capacity-building platform designed to enhance the skills of EAC’s tourism practitioners and service providers, featuring topics such as, implementation of sustainable tourism practices in product development, which are key focus points in the current tourism business environment.
 
"The platform ensures our industry professionals remain competitive and adapt to the changing global trends and costumer needs," he said.
 
In a bid to position East Africa as a unified tourism destination, the EAC has been organizing Regional Tourism Expos, rotating among Partner States. These expos aim at bringing together service providers, buyers, and media to showcase the region’s diverse offerings. Additionally, the Community is developing a **“Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe"** promotional video, which will be distributed digitally to enhance the region’s visibility and global appeal.
 
On his part, Marc Stalmans, the EU Head of Cooperation for the United Republic of Tanzania and the EAC, noted that the European Union is proud to support this transformative vision through the EU LIFTED project. He emphasized that by leveraging European agencies’ capacity to attract international tourists and East African operators’ deep understanding of the region, the EAC can develop tourism products that not only meet global demand but also celebrate and preserve local traditions and ecosystems.
 
Speaking at the event, Julia Hannig, Head of Division East Africa at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), stated that a unified brand like **"Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe"** strengthens the region’s competitive edge. Germany had initially supported the development of the brand, while its promotion is now being supported under #TeamEurope. 

"This initiative makes it easier for global travelers and investors to recognize East Africa as a top destination. It also demonstrates the EAC’s commitment to sustainable tourism, balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation," she stated.
 
On behalf of the German private sector, Mr. Christoph Kannengießer, CEO of the German-African Business Association pointed out that tourism was a vehicle for triggering investments as tourists would often times return to invest in a country. Additionally, he noted that private sector cooperation between Germany and East Africa – in tourism and beyond – would be mutually beneficial while initiatives like joint regional branding could support business partnerships.
 
 
![Participants at the ITB Berlin event _rev.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/Participants_at_the_ITB_Berlin_event_rev_c8a2e814f7.jpg)
 
Beyond the launch, discussions were held on how East Africa, under its new brand, could embrace sustainability. The event was graced by Honorable Deputy Ministers of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Federal Republic of Somalia, Honorable Ambassadors of Rwanda and Kenya to Germany, along with Chairpersons and CEOs of Tourism Boards, EU-based tour operators, and international tourism journalists.
 
Under the banner of **"Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe,"** the region is not only showcasing its unparalleled beauty and cultural richness but also reinforcing East Africa’s appeal as a seamless, multi-destination experience.
 
The EAC recorded approximately 8.5 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, compared to pre-COVID levels of 7.7 million in 2019. By promoting the 'Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe' brand alongside national tourism brands, the EAC hopes to surpass 11 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2027.


EAC Unveils 'Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe' Tourism Brand at ITB Berlin (GIZ)

GIZ through LIFTED “Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services and CSOs in the EAC” - a project jointly co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), supports the East African Community (EAC) regional economic integration agenda by focusing on framework conditions for enhanced Trade in Services. 

The project is championing the harmonization of operating licensing requirements for tour operators, travel agencies, tour guide and tourism accommodation establishments and restaurants. 

The initiative is to develop areas for agreement and harmonization of the operating licensing requirements for travel agencies, tour operators and tour guides and tourism accommodation establishments and restaurants. 

Among other objectives, the action aims to simplify, streamline, and standardize the process for obtaining and maintaining tourism-related operating licenses in the region, thereby promoting the growth of the tourism sector, facilitating regional integration, and ensuring a unified experience for tourists visiting the EAC. 

Additionally, the action focusses on harmonization of operating licensing requirements for tour operators, travel agencies, tour guides and tourism accommodation establishments and restaurants, with the aim to develop Standardized Licensing Platforms where tour operators, tour guides, travel agencies, etc. can apply and renew operating licenses that are to be valid across the EAC region. This is to enhance the free movement of tourism service providers, in line with EAC Partner States commitments under the Common Market Protocol (CMP). 

As part of this initiative, GIZ Tanzania/EAC invites application from regional consulting firms with knowledge, skills and experience in the sector, to support in the harmonization of operating licensing requirements for tour operators, travel agencies, tour guide and tourism accommodation establishments and restaurants. 

Interested firms should request for detailed tender documents from **tz_procurement@giz.de** no later than **10th March 2025** and submit Technical and Financial proposals by email no later than **17th March 2025.**


Invitation: Consultancy on Harmonization of Operating licensing Requirements for Tourism Sector in EAC (GIZ)

The dSkills@EA Incubation Leadership and Innovation Management Programme for Universities in the East African Community (EAC) has successfully concluded, building the capacities at universities in fostering innovation and technology transfer. 

This initiative, a collaboration between the EAC and the German government, is implemented by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) in partnership with the Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and aim to empower universities to foster academia-industry collaboration, positioning higher institutions as key drivers of regional economic growth.

The programme’s inception in June 2024, followed a comprehensive Training Needs Assessment, that revealed key gaps in innovation management across East African universities. Findings indicated that 65% of institutions required enhanced innovation infrastructure, and 60% sought structured capacity building programmes in technology transfer and intellectual property management. Addressing these needs, the initiative focused on incubation leadership, academia-industry collaboration, and strengthening innovation ecosystems.

The programme was a collaborative effort of universities and stakeholders from across the EAC Partner States; in partnership with Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) from East Africa and Germany, including the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), SA Innovation Summit, E4Impact Foundation, StartHub Africa, Koneta Hub, Centre d'innovation de Lubumbashi (CINOLU), ACLIS, and Technische Universität (TU) Berlin. The partners delivered a world-class curriculum and masterclasses, with deep dives into scaling innovation and start-up support within universities.

![photo 2.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/photo_2_fe4cea6eaf.jpg)

Speaking on behalf of the IUCEA Executive Secretary, Dr. Salome Guchu, the Principal Innovation and Research Officer, expressed gratitude for the tremendous contribution by all actors in the programme. She noted that this programme demonstrates the commitment of EAC Partner States to building a network of innovation leaders and to advance technology transfer across the region for sustainable development.

“We appreciate GIZ’s efforts through the dSkills@EA project, in skilling trainers, teachers and students across East Africa, including Somalia. The project has built digital capacities that will support digital transformation in the region. The launch of this AI Alliance will build on these gains,” said Dr Dorcas Omukhulu, the Principal Education Officer, EAC Secretariat.

The four-month programme equipped 129 university hub managers, research and development officers and technology transfer officers from over 91 universities in East Africa, with skills in innovation management and research commercialisation. It provided strategic frameworks for managing innovation processes, protecting academic innovations, translating research into market-ready solutions, and fostering supportive environments for start-ups and spin-offs.  

93.6% of participants stated the training met or exceeded their expectations, with 85% integrating innovation management principles into their institutional curricula. In Uganda, the programme led to the formation of a Consortium of University Hubs network, enabling over 10 universities to formalize innovation partnerships and co-develop research commercialization strategies.

![photo 3.jpg](https://strapi.eacgermany.org/uploads/photo_3_fac83ca064.jpg)

Sharing his testimony as a participant of the programme, Mr. Edison Kagona, Manager for the Center of Innovation at Cavendish University in Uganda, praised the programme for highlighting the importance of universities to unite and collaborate through strategic partnerships in research commercialization for a lasting transformation of the community.

The event also marked the graduation of 22 university staff from the Federal Republic of Somalia, who successfully completed digital skills training programme designed to equip educators with essential tools for enhancing learning at universities. The training that was delivered with support of SIMAD university in Somalia, marked the successful conclusion of the digital skills training programme, that benefitted 107 staff from 37 universities across the seven EAC Partner States. To date a total of 4,000 beneficiaries have been trained under the dSkills@EA project.

Mr. Abdiwahab Isak, Director of International Cooperation at SIMAD University in Somalia, commended the initiative expressing his appreciation to all partners for making this a reality and onboarding Somalia to the programme.

On his part, Mr. David Roos, dSkills@EA Project Director, emphasized that the project did not just train individuals, but cultivated an ecosystem that fosters innovation and drives economic development. 

“Building on the success, of the dSkills@EA project, IUCEA and GIZ will continue engaging universities through advanced digital skills, AI research and innovation through regional collaboration platforms,” he added. 

Find more details about the dSkills@EA project visit [www.eacgermany.org](www.eacgermany.org)


April 3rd, 2025