NAIROBI — Regional business leaders are demanding faster trade reforms following a two-day summit in Kenya aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the East African Community.
The East African Business and Investment Summit & Expo 2026, held Feb. 24-25, concluded with a call to action from more than 450 delegates. Attendees included ministers, industry leaders and investors who gathered to address gaps in regional integration.
Beatrice Askul Moe, Kenya’s cabinet secretary for East African Community and regional development, told the assembly that while intra-regional trade has grown over the last 20 years, the focus must shift toward results.
It is now time to translate policy reforms into measurable economic outcomes, said Moe, who also serves as chairperson of the EAC Council of Ministers.
Annette Ssemuwemba Mutaawe, the EAC deputy secretary general for customs, trade and monetary affairs, said the necessary frameworks are already in place. She said the Secretariat is committed to working with the private sector to dismantle trade barriers and use technology, such as customs automation, to improve market access.
However, John Lual Akol, chairperson of the East African Business Council, noted that significant work remains. He pointed out that intra-EAC trade accounts for less than 15% of the bloc’s total trade, well below the 40% target set for 2030.
I urge governments and businesses to move decisively from reform to attain tangible results, Akol said.
Jas Bedi, chairperson of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance and vice chair of the EABC, identified unpredictable tax regimes and regulatory inconsistencies as major obstacles. He called for increased investment in transport corridors, ports and rail connectivity to lower the cost of doing business.
The summit, organized by the EABC in partnership with KEPSA and the EAC Secretariat, featured more than 60 exhibitors. The event ended with Moe and Akol signing resolutions to deepen collaboration between regional governments and the private sector.
Key priorities in the final agreement include the full implementation of the EAC Customs Union and Common Market Protocols. Delegates also urged member states to harmonize domestic taxes and eliminate non-tariff barriers that continue to fragment the regional market.
