The project aims at enabling the SPIU to effectively steer the EIF process in the country and increase ownership of trade‑related technical assistance.

Results

• The Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (DTIS) and Action Matrix were updated in March 2014 to solidify linkages with the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS II 2013-2018) and the Private Sector Strategy 2013‑2018. The revised DTIS was disseminated to 198 exporters to increase knowledge in standards, market requirements, export substitution and promotion.

• Implementation plans of the National Export Strategy for key export clusters (coffee, tea, mining, horticulture, construction materials, handicrafts, tourism, ICT) have been updated. The quarterly trade performance reports were produced in December 2015 as means to evaluate the strategy.

• The EIF National Implementation Unit participated in four bilateral negotiations in four national monitoring committee meetings on the elimination of Non‑Tariff Barriers (NTBs). This has led to the removal of some NTBs.

• 30 staff from the Ministry Trade and Industry (MINICOM) were trained in different fields including e‑waste management, consumer protection techniques, project management, trade negotiations and IT.

• 112 exporters were trained on the DTIS and external trade opportunities.

• 54 artisan exporters were supported to attend Jua Kali regional trade fairs.

• 5 exporters attended international trade fairs in the USA.

• SOPYRWA received financial support to access the market for pyrethrum in Europe and America. As a result, two major contracts were signed.

• Consultants carried out an Aid for Trade assessment and designed two new projects.

• The World Bank is providing $26 million to support the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation Project, which was designed to reduce the costs faced by traders, the majority of whom are small-scale and women traders, on the borders of the DRC and Rwanda.