In 2006, a pivotal strategy was set in motion for the East African Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (EACCIA), designed to not only facilitate regional integration but also to provide a clear pathway to economic growth across East Africa. With objectives that remain central to its mission, including trade promotion, investment mobilization, business environment improvements, and information dissemination, EACCIA has continued to serve as a foundational pillar for East African business development. As the consulting arm of EACCIA, EACCIA Consulting Limited has become a key player in bridging the gap between strategic intentions and actionable implementation within the region.
“EACCIA’s vision is rooted in the belief that a vibrant national business sector and domestic private investment are vital for sustainable economic growth,” Charles Kahuthu, the Regional Coordinator and CEO of the EACCIA, said, adding that while foreign portfolio investments have historically been the largest source of external development finance globally, East Africa sees foreign direct investment (FDI) as a primary driver.
This distinction highlights the need for strategic partnerships that integrate both foreign and domestic sources of investment. EACCIA Consulting provides essential advisory services that guide local businesses, governmental bodies, and international investors toward creating mutually beneficial collaborations that foster growth and development.
One of the cornerstones of EACCIA’s ongoing work is the promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). These partnerships have proven to be especially effective in developing the region’s infrastructure, where public funds alone are often insufficient.
“By strengthening the legislative and institutional frameworks necessary for PPPs, EACCIA ensures that infrastructure projects are not only feasible but sustainable, preventing capital flight and bolstering regional economic integration. As the demand for infrastructure continues to grow in the East African Community (EAC), EACCIA’s role in promoting such partnerships cannot be overstated, Kahuthu said.
EACCIA Consulting also recognizes that capacity building is critical to sustaining long-term growth, Kahuthu adds. The organization’s initiatives focus on restructuring national chambers to foster regional collaboration and strengthen support services, including training, marketing, and financial services.
These efforts extend beyond domestic borders, with a focus on creating opportunities for businesses through regional trade fairs, conferences, and study tours. By enhancing access to new markets and learning opportunities, EACCIA aims to build a region where enterprises thrive through shared knowledge and collaboration.
As regional integration continues to evolve, the need for synergies between various sectors becomes more apparent. EACCIA advocates for a cluster approach that groups key sectors of the EAC economies. This approach allows for better economies of scale and a unified effort to promote East Africa’s competitive edge on the global stage.
“By reducing competition within sectors and promoting areas of complementarity, EACCIA helps regional industries work together, strengthening East Africa’s position in global trade and investment flows,” Kahuthu said
Equally important is EACCIA’s role in fostering public-private dialogue. Through stable, transparent policies and clear business rules, EACCIA has been instrumental in ensuring that governments and the private sector work together to address issues such as trade facilitation, non-tariff barriers (NTBs), and illicit trade. By creating platforms for open dialogue, EACCIA ensures that the private sector’s voice is heard and considered in policy-making processes.
At the heart of EACCIA’s mission is the advocacy for a conducive business environment within the EAC. Through its consultancy and advisory services, EACCIA Consulting is actively involved in addressing the challenges faced by national chambers and businesses, from poor trade facilitation to the lack of skilled labor. By streamlining policies, harmonizing regulations, and enhancing access to resources, EACCIA is shaping an environment where businesses can compete on an equal footing.
As East Africa continues to grow, the role of EACCIA Consulting is more crucial than ever. By helping businesses navigate the complexities of cross-border trade, investment, and infrastructure development, EACCIA, as the umbrella chamber, plays an indispensable part in driving the region toward greater economic integration and prosperity. Through strategic partnerships, capacity building, and the promotion of public-private collaborations, EACCIA Consulting is helping to transform East Africa into a thriving hub of innovation, investment, and trade.
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