The Horn of Africa Initiative (HoAI) successfully convened the Kenya National Trade Consultation, the final in-country trade mission in a series of national consultations conducted across Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya in preparation for the upcoming HoAI Trade Ministers' Meeting scheduled for September in Addis Ababa.
The consultation was officially opened through virtual remarks delivered on behalf of the Chair of the Horn of Africa Initiative, H.E. Bihi Iman Egeh, Minister of Finance of the Federal Republic of Somalia, by the Head of Secretariat Mr. Liban Obsiye reaffirming the collective commitment of HoAI member countries to advancing regional trade facilitation and economic integration.
The mission brought together representatives from government institutions and representatives from the private sector to identify priority actions for strengthening the region's trade facilitation agenda. Discussions focused on enhancing policy and regulatory cooperation, reducing barriers to trade, and improving regional connectivity to support increased intra regional trade.
The outcomes of the national consultations will be consolidated during the forthcoming Regional Validation Workshop before being presented to the HoAI Trade Ministers for consideration and adoption in Addis Ababa.
The HoAI Secretariat expresses its appreciation to the Governments of HoAI countries, the national technical teams, Development Partners, and all stakeholders for their valuable contributions. Special appreciation is extended to Germany for its technical leadership and continued support throughout the consultation process.
Together, HoAI member countries continue to advance practical solutions that promote regional integration, facilitate trade, and foster sustainable economic growth across the Horn of Africa.