The East African Business Council (EABC) ushered in a new chapter of leadership during its 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on December 13, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania. This pivotal event saw Uganda represented by four distinguished business leaders: Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare, who were elected to strategic positions within the council.
Simon Kaheru of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) emerged as the Vice Chairperson, reinforcing Uganda’s influential role in regional economic integration. Joining him are Oscar Kamukama from Steel and Tube Industries, Kenneth Ayebare representing the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and Bruce Mpamizo of Movit Products Limited. These leaders will now represent Uganda in the EABC’s newly established Governing Council and Executive Committee, which oversees the council’s agenda and decision-making.
Pioneering Leadership for Regional Integration
The election of Uganda’s representatives underscores the nation’s dedication to advancing regional trade, eliminating barriers, and promoting private-sector growth within the East African Community (EAC). The leadership team is tasked with advocating for policies that encourage cross-border investment, drive regional trade, and ensure an enabling business environment.
The broader leadership team elected at the AGM reflects the diversity and expertise of the EAC member states. Hon. Olivier Suguru from Burundi joins Kaheru as a Vice Chairperson, along with Jas Bedi from Kenya, Dennis Karera from Rwanda, and Angelina Ngalula from Tanzania. Together, this dynamic team is set to enhance collaboration and economic prosperity across the region.
Other notable Governing Council members include:
- Kenya: Rajan Shah (former Chairperson of Kenya Association of Manufacturers) and Clifford Machoka (Senior Director for Public Affairs, Coca-Cola East and Central Africa).
- Rwanda: Linda Kalimba Mulenga (Trinity Lawyers) and Emmanuel Nkusi (Bank of Kigali).
- South Sudan: Kennedy Lodiong Kenyi (Association of South Sudan Manufacturers) and Mou Ambrose Thiik (Trinity Group).
- Tanzania: Ashish Mistry (ALAF Group) and Satbir Singh (Hanspaul Group of Companies).
Reflections and Vision for the Future
The AGM, recognized as the EABC’s highest decision-making body, provided a platform for reviewing the council’s achievements in 2023/24 and establishing its goals for the 2024–2026 period. The meeting highlighted significant milestones, including efforts to reduce non-tariff barriers and initiatives to boost small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Key amendments to the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMARTs) were also approved, resulting in the establishment of a Governing Council aimed at streamlining decision-making and fostering greater engagement across member states.
Insights from Key Stakeholders
The Chief Guest, Mr. Frank Mbando, representing Hon. Paul Makonda, Regional Commissioner of Arusha, praised the EABC’s contribution to regional economic integration. He urged business leaders to capitalize on emerging opportunities, particularly in the edible oil and textile sectors, and highlighted the potential economic boost from the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Incoming Chairperson, Mr. John Lual Akol Akol from the South Sudan National Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, expressed gratitude to the outgoing leadership for their dedication. He reiterated the council’s commitment to fostering a borderless East Africa for business and investment.
“The EABC remains committed to removing trade barriers and advancing a unified regional market for the benefit of all,” he stated in his acceptance speech.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
Under its new leadership, the EABC is poised to amplify its efforts toward creating an integrated and business-friendly environment. Mr. Adrian Njau, Secretary to the EABC Board, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the council’s vision.
“With the new leadership, we are poised to accelerate regional integration and create opportunities for private-sector growth,” Njau remarked.
The AGM concluded on a high note, with member states reaffirming their commitment to driving sustainable economic development and private-sector collaboration across the East African Community.
A Bright Future for Uganda and the EAC
The election of Uganda’s Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare into pivotal roles marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s contribution to the EAC’s vision. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly drive meaningful progress, fostering a more integrated, prosperous East African region.