The German government has committed €39.8 million (about Shs170.3 billion) in new grant funding to strengthen regional trade and economic integration across the East African Community (EAC).

The funding follows development cooperation negotiations between Germany and the EAC aimed at supporting the implementation of the bloc’s 7th Development Strategy.

Both sides reaffirmed that advancing intra-regional trade and economic integration remains at the core of their partnership.

Part of the funding will support metrology and measurement standards through cooperation between Germany’s National Metrology Institute and its counterparts in East Africa.

The EAC Secretariat said reliable measurement results are critical for consumer protection, local economic development and stronger trade links between African and European economies.

Germany welcomed the EAC’s progress on institutional reforms, including the adoption of the 7th EAC Development Strategy, and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its implementation through technical and financial cooperation.

The two partners also emphasised the need for closer collaboration with civil society, the private sector and development partners to strengthen regional cooperation.

Under its commitment to the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy and as part of Team Europe, Germany said it would continue working with the EU and participating member states to support regional initiatives in trade, digital transformation, health, transboundary water management, civil society and sustainable economic development.

Of the total funding, €4.8 million has been earmarked as additional German support in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region. The funds will support preparedness, prevention and response efforts, as well as strengthen regional capacities and coordination.

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