The East African Community and its development partners have pledged to strengthen their cooperation to accelerate the implementation of the 7th EAC Development Strategy. This commitment was made during the 4th EAC Development Partners Group Forum held in Arusha from November 10th to 11th, 2026. The forum provided a platform for members to discuss EAC priorities, ongoing programs, and new financing opportunities.
A key focus of the discussions was a project pipeline comprising 48 proposals aimed at regional economic integration, infrastructure, social development, and peace and security. EAC Secretary General Amb. Stephen Mbundi emphasized the need to shift focus from strategy to action. He stated that the priority now is implementation, and the forum aims to build practical partnerships that mobilize financing and expertise for programs that yield tangible results.
The EAC currently has a portfolio of 42 active projects valued at around USD 370 million, supported by 12 major development partners. This existing foundation is crucial for the enhanced cooperation planned under the new development strategy. Mbundi stressed that successful partnerships must demonstrate clear regional benefits, such as reducing business costs across borders and strengthening regional infrastructure.
The new development strategy emphasizes the importance of engaging with development partners through inclusive dialogues and mobilizing resources for effective implementation. The forum provided an opportunity for development partners to align their support with EAC objectives and identify impactful areas for collaboration. Julia Kronberg, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Tanzania, echoed the need for better alignment and accountability among partners.
Kronberg stated that the forum is an opportunity to ensure that support from development partners leads to meaningful improvements in people's lives. The forum aims to contribute to the EAC's goal of fostering a more integrated and competitive region, while expanding trade and investment opportunities and enhancing security and livelihoods.
The EAC Development Partners Group plays a crucial role in supporting the community's development agenda. The group's chairperson, Julia Kronberg, highlighted the importance of coordination and alignment among partners to achieve tangible results. The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to cooperation and implementation of the 7th EAC Development Strategy.
The strengthened partnerships between the EAC and its development partners are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of East Africans. The EAC Secretary General emphasized that the ultimate goal is to improve livelihoods, reduce business costs, and strengthen regional infrastructure. The successful implementation of the 7th EAC Development Strategy will depend on the effective collaboration between the EAC and its development partners.
Key points
- The EAC and development partners have committed to strengthening cooperation to implement the 7th EAC Development Strategy.
- The strategy focuses on regional economic integration, infrastructure, social development, and peace and security.
- The EAC has a portfolio of 42 active projects valued at around USD 370 million, supported by 12 major development partners.
