The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the East African Community (EAC) have embarked on a collaborative effort to enhance intra-regional trade in fruits and vegetables. In a strategic move, the two regional blocs have established the COMESA-EAC Horticultural Accelerator (CEHA), headquartered in Lusaka, Zambia, intending to significantly increase trade value within the horticultural sector.
The CEHA initiative sets ambitious targets, aiming for intra-regional trade value in fruits and vegetables to reach $25 million by 2031. Additionally, the initiative aims to boost global exports from $416 million to an impressive $950 million within the same timeframe.
During a stakeholders meeting held in Arusha recently, CEHA Regional Coordinator, Mr. Appolo Owuor, outlined the organization's vision and goals. The focus of CEHA will be on kickstarting the growth of the horticultural industry, beginning with avocado, onion, and Irish potato value chains.
Studies conducted by CEHA indicate that these crops have the potential to generate a combined annual revenue of $230 million, benefiting approximately 450,000 smallholder farmers across the region. Moreover, CEHA aims to address key challenges in the horticultural value chain, including regulatory harmonization, production coordination, and transportation constraints.
Mr. Owuor highlighted the importance of streamlining processes at ports to facilitate the efficient export of perishable goods. CEHA plans to introduce measures to expedite clearance procedures, ensuring that products reach overseas markets in optimal condition.
The initiative also aims to double the volume of preserved or processed fruits and vegetables by 2031, while reducing the time from farm to market by 50 percent. Additionally, CEHA plans to reduce post-harvest losses by half, increase yields, and enhance labor productivity.
One of CEHA's key strategies involves providing adequate financial support to farmers and processors, removing policy barriers to trade, and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices. By fostering private sector-led investments and supporting the formation of farmer organizations, CEHA aims to empower local communities and create sustainable economic opportunities.
Five countries, namely Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda, have been identified as focal points for the accelerator drive based on the industry's contribution to their economies. CEHA's comprehensive approach aligns with the strategic plans of both Comesa and EAC, emphasizing the importance of horticulture in driving economic growth and fostering inclusivity.
In her remarks, Ms. Irene Madeje Mlola, the Director-General for Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (Copra), pledged support for CEHA, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in maximizing the benefits of the initiative.
The launch of CEHA marks a significant milestone in the efforts to strengthen regional integration and promote sustainable development across Eastern and Southern Africa. With a clear roadmap and robust partnerships in place, CEHA is poised to transform the horticultural landscape and unlock new opportunities for farmers and stakeholders across the region.