The Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) in collaboration with ESAMI-trapca, supported a regional training program aimed at strengthening capacity in trade facilitation and green trade policies.
The program, titled “Enhancing Trade Facilitation and Green Trade Policies,” was held from 31 August to 11 September 2026 at ESAMI Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, bringing together 30 participants from East African Community (EAC) Member States.
The training formed part of broader efforts to strengthen the ability of trade practitioners and relevant public-sector stakeholders to respond to emerging developments in regional and international trade. It provided a platform for participants to deepen their understanding of trade facilitation, green trade policy and the practical linkages between trade, sustainability and regional economic integration.
Through a combination of technical sessions, practical learning and experience sharing, participants examined key issues affecting the implementation of trade policies and trade facilitation measures. The program also encouraged regional dialogue and the exchange of experiences among officials working within different national and institutional contexts.
Particular emphasis was placed on the growing importance of integrating environmental considerations into trade policy and implementation. As countries pursue sustainable economic growth while seeking to improve competitiveness and market access, stronger institutional capacity in green trade and trade facilitation is increasingly important.
The program also provided an opportunity for participants to connect policy concepts with practical applications. By bringing together practitioners from across the EAC region, the training supported peer learning and created space for participants to share experiences, challenges and approaches relevant to their respective countries.
The successful delivery of the program reflects the value of collaboration among regional institutions and development partners in advancing trade capacity in Africa. BADEA’s support enabled the program to provide a focused regional learning platform, while ESAMI-trapca contributed their institutional and technical expertise to the implementation of the training.
The program concluded on 11 September 2026 at the ESAMI Conference Centre in Arusha. The closing session marked the completion of the two-week learning program and provided an opportunity to reflect on the knowledge and experiences gained during the training.
Through initiatives such as this, ESAMI-trapca continue to contribute to regional capacity development by supporting professionals and institutions engaged in trade policy and implementation. The partnership with BADEA further reinforces the importance of coordinated capacity-building efforts in advancing effective trade facilitation and sustainable trade across the region.
