Theory of Change: Improved Business Competitiveness

East Africa standards platform

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="East Africa standards platform" implementor="East African Business Council (EABC)" target_group="Importers and exporters, Manufacturers" project_value="US$ 320,412" implementation_period="2012 - 2014" 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 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 however are weak, lack long-term or comprehensive support, and are criticised for failing adequately to represent their constituencies. What: This project will lobby for increased harmonisation of priority standards. How: TMA will provide the required technical and financial assistance to SID to conduct the research. Contact: Allan Ngugi, Program Manager, Business Competitiveness allan.ngugi@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="42540" image_2="42538"]EAC partner states implement harmonised priority standards; reduction in the cost of compliance with standards within the EAC; bureau of standards and producers improve their understanding of standards and requirements. Together the results lead to a reduction in the cost and time of doing business in the EAC region.[/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...

Goli One Stop Border Post

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Goli One Stop Border Post" implementor="Ministry of Works and Transport (Construction) and Uganda Revenue Authority (Operationalise OSBP)" target_group="Importers, Exporters, Transporters, Cross Border Traders, Travellers, Border Officials" project_value="USD 2.5 million" implementation_period="2018- 2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="https://www.trademarkafrica.com/download/58532/"]The Goli/Mahagi border between Uganda and DR Congo is characterised by dilapidated infrastructure and border inefficiency which results in a poor environment for handling and processing goods and people.  DR Congo is key trading partner for Uganda, with a significant amount of manufactured goods being exported to DR Congo. Furthermore, informal trade between Uganda and DR Congo is high, in FY 2017/18 DR Congo was the main informal partner with total informal export trade of USD 291.48 million. DR Congo has also expressed interest in joining the East African Community which will further strengthen its ties with Uganda and the EAC region. What: The project will address the challenges at the Goli/Mahagi border by constructing a one stop border post, implementing an integrated border management system including procedural and regulatory reforms How: TMA, with funding from the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is financing the construction of the Goli OSBP and the integrated border management system. Contact: Programme Manager OSBPs: Michael Ojatum michael.ojatum@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"]The project is expected to: Upgrade the Non-Tariff Barrier monitoring and reporting system. Increase identification and resolution of Non-Tariff Barriers Strengthen the National Monitoring Committee [/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"...

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...

Gulu Logistics Hub

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Gulu Logistics Hub" implementor="Ministry of Works and Transport Uganda and Uganda Railways Corporation" target_group="Importers, Exporters, Transporters" project_value="USD 8.4 million" implementation_period="2018- 2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="https://www.trademarkafrica.com/download/58531/"]In recent years Uganda has played a vital role as a distribution hub for South Sudan and the Eastern DR Congo. However, importers in South Sudan and DRC keep supplies (exports and re-exports) in bonded facilities in Kampala which increases the cost due to the distance the goods must travel. The route to South Sudan and DRC passes through Northern Uganda, despite the large volume of goods en-route to these markets, there is no distribution hub in Northern Uganda. The northern region depends on Kampala and Jinja distribution hubs. The operationalisation of the Gulu Logistics Hub is therefore expected to address some of the issues that hamper distribution of cargo in Northern Uganda, South Sudan, parts of DRC. What: The Gulu Logistics Hub will respond to the logistics needs to the northern region by providing functions such as container and break-bulk, handling and storage facilities including bonded and non-bonded warehouses, space for stakeholders dealing with freight transport and the provision of accompanying services such as customs inspections, tax payment, maintenance and repair, banking, and information communication technology connections. The Gulu Logistics Hub envisages the construction of bonded and non-bonded warehousing facilities through private sector investment. How: TMA, with funding from the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) (USD 3.2 million) and the European Union (USD 5.2 million) is financing the construction of...

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...

Jinja Trade Logistics Cluster

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Gulu Logistics Hub" implementor="Uganda Free Zones Authority" target_group="Importers, Exporters, Transporters, Regulatory Government Agencies" project_value="USD 520,000" implementation_period="2018- 2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="https://www.trademarkafrica.com/download/58530/"]Despite promising developments in Uganda, industrialization remains elusive. The Country continues to be heavily import-reliant, importing four to five times its exports, while regional trade remains low. Whilst much progress has been made with TMA’s support in reducing time and costs of trade in the region, and lowering import costs, there has been a muted production response at the firm level. Export profiles are still dominated by primary commodities with limited value addition. Unemployment is persistently high across the country, particularly amongst youth. Uganda put in place a national Industrial Policy in 2008 however its implementation remains a challenge. What: The Jinja TLC, which will be situated on a 20 acres parcel of land within the Jinja Industrial Park, is designed to unlock constraints to value addition in export-oriented sectors that have high growth potential for manufacturing and labour absorption, these include horticulture (fruit and vegetables), light manufacturing (automotive) and aquaculture. The TLC will provide storage infrastructure especially for horticulture produce, address issues of standards and compliance which are critical for competitiveness and export readiness. TMA plans to jump start growth in the country through a co-ordinated public private partnership approach with the Government of Uganda and the private sector. The approach is demand-led and aligned with the government’s industrialisation and export development strategies. These shall be achieved through promoting a localized economy in which many manufacturing companies,...

Malaba OSBP (Uganda)

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Malaba OSBP (Uganda)" implementor="Ministry of Works and Transport Uganda Revenue Authority" target_group="Importers, Exporters, Transporters, Cross Border Traders, Border Officials, Travelers " project_value="USD 4.2 million" implementation_period="2018- 2021" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="https://www.trademarkafrica.com/download/58515/"]The Malaba border is one of several border crossing points in the East African region designated to operate as a One Stop Border Post. However, there are physical and soft infrastructure challenges that prevent optimum operation of the OSBP. A dilapidated 1 km connecting road between Uganda and Kenya remains a huge bottleneck to one of the busiest borders in the EAC region, handling an average of 100 trucks per day. The road is narrow and in a very poor state causing traffic congestion and accidents that significantly slows down the flow of cargo and people across Malaba border and in turn substantially reduce the gains achieved along the Northern Corridor.  Additional challenges at the OBSP affecting efficiency include security of the premises, staff accommodation to enable 24-hour operation and additional parking lots for trucks. What: TMA is providing support to both Kenya and Uganda to complete construction of approximately 1 km road section connecting Malaba (KE) and Malaba (UG) OSBPs.   The project will also include works at Malaba OSPBP that will improve efficiency and security, these include expansion of the exit gate, completion of the parking yard, construction of a staff accommodation block, additional fencing and security lighting and repair of the old bridge. How: TMA, with funding from United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is...

Ntoroko Lake Port

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Ntoroko Lake Port" implementor="Ministry of Works and Transport (Construction) and Uganda Revenue Authority (Operationalise OSBP)" target_group="Importers, Exporters, Transporters, Cross Border Traders, Travellers, Border Officials" project_value="USD 3.4 million" implementation_period="2018- 2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="https://www.trademarkafrica.com/download/58873/"]The Ntoroko lake port is located on the shores of Lake Albert between Uganda and DR Congo. Ntoroko port only deals with transit goods from Busia, Malaba, Kasese and Kampala towards Bunia in DR Congo. The lake port is characterised by poor lake port infrastructure, port inefficiencies which results in a poor environment for handling and processing goods and people. DR Congo is a key trading partner for Uganda, with exports including both manufactured goods and agricultural goods. Furthermore, informal trade between Uganda and DR Congo is high, in FY 2017/18 DR Congo was Uganda’s main informal trading partner with total informal export trade of USD 291.48 million. Furthermore, DR Congo has expressed interest in joining the East African Community which will further strengthen its ties with Uganda and the EAC region, necessitating improved border infrastructure to facilitate movement of people and goods. What: The project will address the infrastructure challenges at the Ntoroko lake port, including: Resurfacing the concrete access road will be to permit all weather usage Resurfacing the concrete turning and parking area Constructing a new jetty comprising of sheet metal pipes with a grid of concrete beams supporting including Construct a concrete deck that is 5.0 metres wide to enable a small pick-up lorry (5 Ton) or a small lorry with an...