Monday, 27th April 2026 | Arusha, Tanzania: A delegation from Bayer, led by Ms Emily Kigume-Ruigu, paid a courtesy visit to the East African Business Council (EABC) Secretariat. The delegation was received on behalf of the EABC Executive Director by Mr Adrian Njau, EABC Trade & Policy Advisor.
Ms. Kigume-Ruigu highlighted key challenges affecting cross-border trade within the three Regional Economic Communities (REC) in the continent, including unharmonized trade facilitation instruments – particularly in the movement of seeds, Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures, customs valuation, and customs procedures. The team reaffirmed Bayer’s commitment to strengthening its operations across the region, focusing on crop science, pharmaceuticals, and consumer health.
The engagement also provided a platform to discuss broader regional trade issues, including dispute resolution mechanisms within the EAC and the importance of strengthening frameworks to ensure a predictable and transparent business environment. Discussions further explored opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area and its potential to expand intra-African trade.
In his remarks, Mr. Njau noted that the EAC private sector is optimistic about the implementation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA), emphasizing that harmonization and alignment of trade instruments will create a larger, more seamless trading bloc across the three RECs. He encouraged businesses to actively participate in the upcoming Tripartite Business Forum, scheduled for Nairobi on 26th May 2026, ahead of the Heads of State Summit on 28th May 2026.
During the discussions, Mr Njau explored opportunities for collaboration in advancing the effective implementation of trade instruments to facilitate cross-border trade and investment across the three Regional Economic Communities: the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community.
Both parties expressed strong interest in continued collaboration to support private sector development, improve trade facilitation, and advance regional economic integration.
