Country: Business Competitiveness

Forum for Strengthening Civil Society-Phase II

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Forum for Strengthening Civil Society-Phase II" implementor="Forum for the Reinforcement of the Civil Society (FORSC)" target_group="Traders in Burundi" project_value="US$128,000" implementation_period="2014 - 2016" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]Burundi being seen as the weakest link of the group of the East African Countries, the majority of Burundians are still up to now asking on the process on the chances of success of Burundi in that new dynamic of regional integration. Thus, periodic analysis of impacts at various levels, on the opportunities and ways to take full advantage of this integration and in a progressive way remain then necessary. The success of the integration process depends on the commitment of states to strengthen their economic, social and political relationship through real ownership of the process by the respective populations. It is clear that in Burundi the different stages of the process are not yet mastered, the opinion is under-informed, the content of the various existing protocols is beyond the reach of the majority of the population, and the benefits of integration have not yet been sufficiently explained. What: Through advocacy, contribute to an effective integration of Burundi in EAC by an improved investment climate and conditions. How: TradeMark Africa (TMA) will provide technical support to Forum for the Reinforcement of the Civil Society (FORSC) to implement this project. Contact: Alice Nibitanga, Email: alice.nibitanga@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42607" image_2="42609"]Increased competitiveness of Burundian traders and products through increased access to trade and market...

Support to Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF)

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Support to Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF)" implementor="Tanzania Private Sector Foundation" target_group="Businesses and Business member organisation" project_value="US$ 671,000" implementation_period="2012 - 2017" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]In Tanzania, attempts by the PSOs to play a more active role in influencing state policy reforms is hampered by restricted participation and lack of appropriate information. Conversely, key potential PSO partners face daunting internal governance challenges. PSOs don’t engage effectively in the integration process and have limited formal institutional engagement with public sector agencies. Most significantly, Tanzanians have inadequate understanding of the integration process and its associated benefits. Successful attempts to influence the government must be anchored on comprehensive evidence and well-argued policy position papers. PSOs have expressed a strong need for support research and capacity development on trade-related issues. What: This project through TPSF is designed to overcome existing challenges of lack of knowledge and understanding about the EAC processes; lack of productive capacities; the existing NTBs imposed by national authorities as well as those imposed by the regional partners; high costs of doing business in Tanzania; lack of business acumen among Tanzanians; low quality of products/services, lack of confidence; and poor government/policies to assist local and eventually cross border businesses. How: TMA Tanzania country programme will provide support through a mix of grants for demand-driven research and advocacy proposals, technical assistance and financial assistance for institutional capacity development. Contact: Elibariki Shammy, Email:elibariki.shammy@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="43278" image_2="43225"]Enhanced awareness, knowledge and...

Support to Tanzania Association of NGO’s

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Support to Tanzania Association of NGO's" implementor="Tanzania Association of NGOs" target_group="Civil Society Organisations" project_value="US$ 95,000" implementation_period="2012 - 2017" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]NGOs in Tanzania have received little recognition as valuable partners in development and continue to suffer from government suspicion and marginalisation. Attempts by the NGOs to play a more active role in influencing state policy reforms is hampered by restricted participation and lack of appropriate information. What: This project aims at collecting reviewing and re-packaging existing knowledge and information on EAC regional integration for online/offline dialogue; and Enhancing a Knowledge base of civil society actors for evidence-based advocacy. How: The TMA Tanzania PSO and CSO Programme will support TANGO in creating awareness about regional integration and nurturing a positive attitude towards it among Tanzanians. Contact: Elibariki Shammy Email:elibariki.shammy@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="43264" image_2="43266"]Increased representation of the views of civil society in EAC venues for national development. This will positively contribute to regional integration policies and practices for growth in trade in East Africa.[/single_project_block_2][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="project-insight"][vc_column][project_single_ele_3_container heading="More Project Insights." sub_heading="Projects Highlights From A Glance" slide_1="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_2="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_3="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock"][single_project_content]Key outputs include; TANGO advocates on regional integration on behalf of its members and other CSO actors [/single_project_content][single_project_content]TANGO holds roundtable with CSOs and policy makers to discuss specific RI issues TANGO uploads...

Support to EACSOF

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Support to EACSOF" implementor="East Africa Civil Society Organisations Forum" target_group="National platform of CSOs/East African Civil Society Organisations Forum (EACSOF) Rwanda chapter and affiliate member groups" project_value="US$ 293,000" implementation_period="2012 - 2016" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]The East African Civil Society Organizations’ Forum (EACSOF) is a regional organization striving to represent a wide ranging diversity of CSOs in the East African Community integration process. Being a young organization, EACSOF has to keep pace with the speed of the integration process by providing timely services to its key stakeholders and also grow itself as a formally recognized institution at the EAC. In order to fulfil its mandate, EACSOF Rwanda seeks to implement programmes that strengthen civil society participation in the EAC integration process. What: Strengthen the capacity of the National Platform for Civil Society to represent civil society interests on regional integration. How: TMA is providing financial and technical assistance to EACSOF Rwanda for the Strengthening of the National Platform for Civil Society’s capacity. Contact: Anataria Karimba, Email: anataria.karimba@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42898" image_2="42818"]Rwanda Civil Society platforms’ capacity strengthened to effectively engage in EAC issues and to influence regional integration policies and practices. This will lead to PSO/CSO organisations positively influencing regional integration policies and practices for growth in trade.[/single_project_block_2][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="project-insight"][vc_column][project_single_ele_3_container heading="More Project Insights." sub_heading="Projects Highlights From A Glance" slide_1="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_2="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock"...

Rwanda Private Sector Federation: organisational capacity development

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Rwanda Private Sector Federation: organisational capacity development" implementor="Rwanda Private Sector Federation" target_group="Private Sector Organisations" project_value="US$ 622,000" implementation_period="2011 - 2016" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]Rwanda has a number of non-state actors in diverse fields that have the opportunity to play a significant role influencing regulatory reforms in Rwanda and the regional integration process. The organisations have a critical role of communicating to, and educating, citizens and businesses about the opportunities, risks, costs and benefits of the EAC. Despite this crucial role the organisations face challenges resulting from limited human and financial resources and a lack of expertise and experience in research and advocacy whilst the private sector is relatively underdeveloped. Consolidated efforts are required from PSOs and CSOs, and their representative organisations, to engage in and contribute to EA integration. What: The aim of this project is to design and implement a three-year strategic plan that focuses on advocacy, communication and capacity development with the aim of improving the quality and delivery of PSF services and to enable the organization to play a greater role in a wider EAC context. How: TradeMark Africa is providing technical and financial assistance to RPSF for institutional capacity development. Contact: David Butera , Email: david.butera@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42460" image_2="42818"]The Rwanda Private Sector Federation increases its level of success in advocating for improvement in the business environment. This will contribute to achieving a private sector-led sustainable economic growth and social development which will...

State of East Africa research reports

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="State of East Africa research reports" implementor="Society for International Development (SID)" target_group="East African Citizens" project_value="US$ 1,100,000" implementation_period="2011 - 2016" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]A political economy study by TMA in 2006 found that policy-making in the EAC has failed effectively to engage the public in open debate. Whilst the EAC Treaty requires the involvement of PSOs and CSOs, it is unclear on entry points and frameworks for engagement. The key association representing the private sector at the regional level is the East African Business Council with an embryonic East Africa CSO Forum seeking to represent civil society across the region. These institutions are, however, weak, lack long-term or comprehensive support, and are criticised for failing adequately to represent their constituencies. What: There is a case for TMA to support the two key apex institutions, and existing or new regional platforms to improve collaboration, facilitating fora for engagement with policy-makers and working with big business to implement strategies for joint action. How: TMA will provide the required technical and financial assistance to SID to conduct the research. Contact: Gloria Atuheirwe, Email:gloria.atuheirwe@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42890" image_2="42888"]Information and analysis that can be used by policymakers, civil society and the private sector to advocate their concerns and interests with respect to regional integration.[/single_project_block_2][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="project-insight"][vc_column][project_single_ele_3_container heading="More Project Insights." sub_heading="Projects Highlights From A Glance" slide_1="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_2="info access for 20 crops & over five...

Kenya Association of Manufacturers: Tax and quality compliance costs

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Kenya Association of Manufacturers: Tax and quality compliance costs" implementor="Kenya Association of Manufacturers" target_group="Manufacturers" project_value="US$ 725,004" implementation_period="2011 - 2013" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]The manufacturing sector contributes about 14% of GDP in Kenya and directly absorbs about 13% of total formal employment. The significance of the manufacturing sector is visible when viewed against regional trade. The performance of Kenya’s manufacturing sectors impacts significantly on other economic and social fundamentals like inflation in the region. Doing business in Kenya can be burdensome, posing a major challenge on how to remain competitive. For example, industries have to cope with the high cost of quality compliance and tax compliance. What: Through TMA financial support, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) proposes to develop evidence based policy advocacy positions on how to reduce the cost of doing business and to enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan industries globally, and particularly in the East African Community. How: Trade Mark East Africa will offer financial support to Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), to develop evidence based policy advocacy positions on how to reduce the cost of doing business and to enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan Industries globally and particularly in the East African Community. Contact: Joshua Mutunga: joshua.mutunga@trademarkea.com Simon Konzolo: joshua.mutunga@trademarkea.com Click here to learn more about One Stop Border Posts Program[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42634" image_2="42636"]KAM positively influencing the trade regulatory framework and practices, and improves and increases the implementation of quality advocacy campaigns towards the East African Community Integration. This will positively contribute to regional...

SEATINI-Upgrading quality standards in agriculture for Uganda maize and sesame.

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="SEATINI-Upgrading quality standards in agriculture for Uganda maize and sesame." implementor="Southern and Eastern African Trade, Information and Negotiations Institute (SEATINI)" target_group="Maize and sesame farmers/producers" project_value="US$ 300,000" implementation_period="2014 - 2017" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]Maize and sesame sub- sector have been faced with the challenge of poor quality across the region resulting from low standards. This has subjected farmers and traders to losses as a result of their goods being rejected at the borders. A number of policies and NTBs continue to affect these 2 sub-sectors in Uganda as a result of failure to meet standards. The EAC Common Market Score Card 2014 (World Bank and International Finance Cooperation) identified Sanitary and Phyto sanitary measures with the most categories of NTBs. The study identified cumbersome testing and certification procedures; non-recognition of quality marks and SPS certificate from other partner states and stringent requirements for exports of products as the most issues related to SPS and technical standards. Most farmers are not yet educated about the importance of handling the produce carefully after harvest so the quality is often bad and it discourages the buyers. Since maize and sesame are grown by the poor communities, supporting export capacities in this area through reducing NTBs associated with differing national requirements for standards will mitigate poverty and protect Uganda maize and sesame exports from negative shocks as she opens up to her neighbors. What: This project aims to support SEATINI develop policy papers to advocate for implementation of EAC standards on maize; work...

Market Linkages Programme – KIVUs Region

[vc_row][vc_column][rev_slider slidertitle="Market Linkages Programme – KIVUs Region" alias="market-linkages-programme-kivus-region"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Market Linkages Programme – KIVUs Region" project_value="US $ 300,000" implementation_period="(Start date) - (Expected end date)October 2017 - December 2020"]The aim of the project is to reduce the DRC growing trade deficit with its EAC neighbors. To achieve this, TMA is funding an integrated export development programme implemented in Eastern DRC comprising mainly (i) Export Capacity Programme : export audit leading to the development of an export action plan for 20 qualified companies;(ii) Export adviser initiative: 6 month programme of training and hands-on coaching and mentoring in the field of 15 local export advisers; (ii)Market linkages programme: focused market research followed by tailored sales missions for 10-15 companies targeting selected EAC/regional markets. Responsibility Center : 42_DRC Project approval summary: 1. PAR approval date: June 2016 PAR number: DRC CBT PAR 2. PAR approval authority: Board NB/ If the project is above $250,000 a PAR must be submitted for approval[/single_project_block_1][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row disable_element="yes" el_id="desired-result"][vc_column][single_project_block_2 heading="Desired Results" image_1="42084" image_2="42057"]1. Reduced barriers to trade in selected sub-sectors in Burundi (Fisheries, palm products and fruits) and greater inclusion of women in trade. 2. Improved export capabilities in fisheries, palm and fruits sub-sectors[/single_project_block_2][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row disable_element="yes"][vc_column][project_single_ele_3_container heading="More Project Insights." sub_heading="Projects Highlights From A Glance" slide_1="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_2="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock" slide_3="info access for 20 crops & over five breeds of livestock"][single_project_content]Key outputs include; Burundi NMC National Coordinator is recruited [/single_project_content][single_project_content]Burundi NMC National Strategy is developed and...

Logistics innovation for Trade (LIFT)

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Logistics innovation for Trade (LIFT)" implementor="Nathan Associates London Ltd" target_group="Innovators, Transporters, Cargo owners, Logistics Industry Players" project_value="US$ 14,114,000" implementation_period="1st July 2014 – 30th June 2019" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"] Freight and transport costs in East Africa are among the highest in the world, with an estimation of them being at 50% higher per kilometer compared to Europe and the USA. These costs erode the competitiveness of goods exported by East African countries, raise the cost of living and put a brake on development activities in the region. For East African landlocked countries, transport costs can be as high as 75% of the value of exports. In the end, it is the producers or a business that suffers the consequences of high transport costs and inefficiencies. The World Bank estimates that high transit costs reduce growth rates by up to 1% per annum and account for 40% of the higher consumer prices paid across the region of more than 250 million people. The institution also posits that transit times have the most significant effect on exports. Yet, studies further estimate that a reduction of one day in transit times leads to a 7% increase in export Trade is growing up to 8% per annum across the region and economic growth is picking up. However, this growth will be constrained if the transport and logistics sector remains inefficient. Therefore, reducing the cost and time of transport and logistics should be a priority. Streamlining this sector will contribute to increasing trade,...