REPOA’s 28th Annual Research Workshop Highlights Strategies for Sustainable Growth and Trade Expansion

Arusha, Tanzania – October 29, 2024

The 28th Annual Research Workshop, hosted by REPOA at the East African Community Headquarters, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore this year’s theme: “Pursuit of Sustained Growth and Trade Expansion.” The event focused on driving sustainable growth in Sub-Saharan Africa through enhanced productive capacities, value chain integration, and strengthened regional trade networks.

Driving Growth through Strategic Value Chains and Trade Expansion

Opening discussions centered on developing and integrating productive capacities across sectors, a critical need for fostering resilient economies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Attendees highlighted the role of value chain enhancement, regional trade, and cross-sector collaboration as foundational to achieving sustainable economic growth.

Key themes included:

• Strengthening Regional Value Chains: Participants examined strategies for overcoming infrastructure bottlenecks and boosting competitiveness to build stronger, interconnected value chains.
• Expanding Trade Networks: Policies and frameworks aimed at deepening trade ties across Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond were analyzed as a pathway to substantial growth and integration.

Deepening Trade Relationships with Global and Emerging Markets

With discussions on partnerships beyond Africa, participants reviewed trade dynamics with the Global North and South, particularly agreements with the EU, UK, and United States, alongside emerging partnerships with Asian markets and BRICS countries. The emphasis was on seizing new trade opportunities and bolstering relationships with neighboring regions, both of which are essential for growth and resilience in the global market.

Aligning Trade Expansion with Sustainable Development Goals

A core component of the workshop was aligning trade expansion with sustainable development priorities, aimed at reducing poverty, enhancing agricultural productivity, and fostering economic inclusivity. A series of panels discussed the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), spotlighting its role in creating jobs, stabilizing economies, and facilitating intra-African trade amid global market uncertainties.

Building Collaborative Partnerships for Agricultural and Industrial Transformation

The event underscored the importance of strategic partnerships, featuring support from key partners, including SAGCOT, the Tanzania Ministry of Trade and Industry, and CRDB Bank. Such partnerships were presented as vital for enhancing Tanzania’s productivity and integrating more effectively into regional and global supply chains. This collaborative effort is expected to strengthen economic foundations across Tanzania and the East African Community.