March 19, 2025 – Arusha, Tanzania: The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Nairobi team, led by Mr. Joji Sato, Executive Director of JETRO Nairobi, alongside Ben Mwasaga and Sakane Sakika, paid a courtesy visit to the East African Business Council (EABC) Secretariat, where they were welcomed by Mr. Adrian Njau, Acting Executive Director of EABC.
During the meeting, Mr. Njau outlined EABC’s role as the apex advocacy body representing private sector associations and corporations from the eight East African Community (EAC) Partner States (Kenya, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Somalia, and South Sudan). He highlighted EABC’s commitment to advocating for policy reforms that foster a competitive, export-led, and integrated regional economy by eliminating trade barriers, reducing the cost of doing business, and enhancing intra-EAC trade and investment.
On his part, Mr. Joji Sato introduced JETRO as a government-related organization dedicated to promoting mutual trade and investment between Japan and global markets. While originally focused on expanding Japanese exports, JETRO now prioritizes foreign direct investment (FDI) into Japan and assisting small and medium-sized Japanese firms in expanding their global trade footprint. He emphasized Japan’s growing interest in investing in Eastern Africa, facilitating exports, and strengthening trade partnerships with the region.
Key Areas of Collaboration Discussed:
- Enhancing Business Connectivity – Promoting trade and investment between Japan and Eastern Africa by improving business linkages.
- Strengthening Strategic Networks – Establishing long-term partnerships between EAC businesses and Japanese investors to foster economic growth.
