EAC, Germany sign €37m deal to support regional integration

The Federal Republic of Germany has given the East African Community (EAC) Euros37m (over Sh138b) to support the economic integration, regional health facilities and water resource management.

"Germany signed a total of euros 37m in grants to the EAC for 2016-2018, highlighting the strong commitment to support the integration process in East Africa," a statement issued by EAC headquarters, Arusha has said.

Euros10m will be invested in the establishment of a regional network of reference laboratories for communicable diseases, it said.

"With this project, the German government responds to a request for support from the EAC for the prevention and control of epidemic outbreaks in the region," the communication dated January 23 said.

Another Euros10m, it said, will be used for Integrated Water Resource Management of Lake Victoria aiming at improving water provision and management of water resources. Both projects will be implemented by KfW development bank.

Germany will also support the EAC in promoting private investment especially in the pharmaceutical sector, including the establishment of a regional quality infrastructure for the pharmaceutical sector. These projects will be implemented by GIZ and PTB - German Metrology Institute.

During the signing ceremony the EAC Secretary General, Amb. Dr. Richard Sezibera thanked the German government for her continued support to the Integration Agenda especially at a time when integration facing challenges across the world.

He said this particular financing agreement comes at the right time when the Community is finalising its New Vision 2050.

The Chargé d` Affaires of the German Embassy Dar es Salaam, John Reyels said: "Our support underlines the importance we give to the East African Community. The EAC is a role model and pace-setter in Africa and we are proud working closely with you in order to contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the citizens of this region."

Since cooperation began in 1998, the total volume of German support to the EAC amounts to almost Euros213m, the statement said adding that Germany also has substantial bilateral cooperation with all five EAC Partner States.