The East African Business Council
The East African Business Council (EABC) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have signed a USD 1 million grant agreement to support sustainable industrial growth in East Africa.
This important partnership aims to strengthen regional trade, create jobs, and make key industries more competitive — especially in edible oil, leather, and textiles.
At the signing ceremony, Mr. Adrian Njau, Acting Executive Director of EABC, said:
“We are thrilled to partner with AfDB on this vital project that paves the way for stronger regional value chains, greater market access, and inclusive growth that benefits businesses and communities across East Africa.”
The EAC Industrialization Policy and Strategy (2012–2032) aims to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP from around 10% to at least 25% by 2032.
The grant will help achieve this by offering technical support, training, research, and public-private dialogue.
It will also help businesses in the region take full advantage of trade opportunities available under the EAC Customs Union, the Common Market Protocols, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which connects a market of 1.3 billion people.
The project will focus on removing barriers in the selected industries through evidence-based advocacy and stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors.
A key part of the project is to promote fair and sustainable development.
It will ensure women, youth, and small businesses are included in industrial growth. Over 1,500 businesses — including many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) — are expected to benefit directly.
This effort supports EABC’s mission to build a better business environment and grow the private sector across East Africa.
It also aligns with AfDB’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), which focuses on expanding manufacturing in all parts of Africa.
The initiative contributes to the Bank’s “Integrate Africa” High 5 priority — aimed at deeper regional integration.
About EABC
The East African Business Council (EABC) is the main voice of the private sector in the East African Community.
Founded in 1997, EABC brings together businesses from all seven EAC countries.
It works to improve trade, promote investment, and support policies that help create a single, strong regional market.
