EAC MEETING TO DEVELOP A REGIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR COOPERATION IN INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY.

EAC MEETING TO DEVELOP A REGIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR CO-OPERATION IN INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY.

BY REGINALD A.MTUI

EAC Secretariat organizes a 2-Day meeting from 23^rd to 24^th February 2012 at Kibo Palace Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania, where by regional experts sit to finalize the draft terms of reference (TORs) for a study to review Industrial research, Technology and Innovation situation in East Africa and prepare an action plan to enhance regional collaboration, technology development and technology transfer to the manufacturing and Small and Medium Enterprises Business.

While addressing representatives from variety universities specialized in Industrial Research, Organizations deal with Industrial research and Technology(IRTOs),National Science and Technology Councils, Ministries responsible for Industrialization, Industry Associations, representatives of  Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs),EABC and IUCEA among others; Deputy Secretary General, Productive and Social Sectors, Jean Claude Nsengiyumva said that EAC is grateful for their participation as what their contributions will input the process of formulating a regional framework for collaboration and cooperation in Industrial research, Technology and Innovation, also they  will be able to exchange views on potentials areas for regional collaboration.

“We highly value your attendance and participation in this process. Your inputs and suggestions on the best way to strengthen synergies and collaboration at regional level to ensure optimal utilization of existing research capacities, knowledge, talents and expertise will be appreciated” He added.

In presenting the background paper; Principal Industrial Economist, George Ndira said that, EAC is responsible to guide and support Industrial research and Technology activities as they fall under the EAC Industrialization Policy, the common market which unite together the partner states under one market that improves the standards and qualities of the partner states goods and services and also facilitate the trade and production of goods.

The partner states have to undertake promotion of research and Technological development through market-led research technological development and adaptation of technologies. EAC has committed to support activities in Industrial research for Private Sectors through its establishment of Infrastructure, facilities and Institutions, regional mechanisms and also research and Technology fund.

Upon the EAC goals and the main objectives of process and support Industrial research and Technology; are to allow experts from the region to review the draft study terms of reference and provide necessary inputs; to give an open space for building alliances as well as encouraging partnership and networking where by the research and Technology Organizations(RTOs) Universities and private sector are expected to be in the forefront; on top of all to visit the already existed research and Technology Facilities in the region so as to expose experts to existing facilities and research capacities.

Among the Small and Medium Enterprises which are to be visited on 24^th February 2012 are TEMDO Industries which are found in Njiro Industrial Area 5 kilometers from Arusha town and also KAMATEK in Arumeru District suburbs of Arusha town.