On 26th January 2025, the EU-EAC Core Programme joined the global customs community in commemorating International Customs Day under the theme “Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose.” The day provided a valuable platform to reflect on the role of customs in promoting secure, efficient, and people-centred trade within the East African region.
In alignment with this year’s theme, the Programme amplified the importance of strategic partnerships—both established and emerging—in strengthening customs operations and enhancing regional integration. Activities marking the day included stakeholder engagements, awareness sessions, and knowledge exchange forums, underscoring the need for continued collaboration between customs administrations, the private sector, and development partners.
The Peer-to-Peer Conference 2025 will be held on June 4th–5th in Kampala, Uganda, under the theme: “Digital Innovation in Financial Services to Boost Cross-Border Trade and Productivity: Empowering East Africa’s FinTech Ecosystem.”
The conference will bring together policymakers, regulators, innovators, and private sector actors to explore how digital financial solutions can drive inclusive growth and regional integration. Hosted under the EU-EAC Core Programme, the event aims to foster dialogue, share best practices, and strengthen collaboration within East Africa’s evolving FinTech landscape.
The Ordre des Professionnels Comptables (OPC) du Burundi is strengthening the accountancy profession to support national development and regional integration. Established under the 2001 Accountants Decree, OPC regulates professional standards and promotes international best practices.
In November 2024, OPC became an associate member of IFAC, marking a major step in its reform journey. With support from the EU-EAC Core Programme and regional partners, OPC is enhancing CPA training, audit quality, and regulatory capacity to drive transparency, trust, and economic growth.
Facilitate cross-border trade and investment across East Africa.
Enhance the capacity and performance of the EAC Secretariat in delivering its mandate.
Promote the free movement of services and people within the EAC Common Market.
Strengthen partnerships and collaboration between the EU, EAC, and other stakeholders.
This is a collaborative effort between the European Union (EU) and the East African Community (EAC) aimed at advancing regional economic integration in East Africa.
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EU-EAC CORE programme, has the overall objective to support the deepening of the EAC regional economic integration through advancing implementation of the Customs Union and the Common Market Protocols
The goal is to create a customs union by improving data exchange protocols and customs functions. The EAC Secretariat will have a stronger role in coordinating and monitoring the process.
Emphasis is on the Common Market to promote free movement of services and improve its efficiency, through the CORE Programme and capacity building of the EAC Secretariat.
