Accelerating regional integration through the development of value chains in climate resilience, mining, tourism, and agriculture is vital for economic growth and industrial development. The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) plays a pivotal role in supporting the private sector across 21 member states, acting as a vital bridge toward achieving collective goals.
The COMESA Business Council (CBC) is the recognized Business Member Organization (BMO) of COMESA, representing the private sector throughout the region. Through advocacy, business facilitation, and enterprise development, the CBC works to enhance private sector competitiveness at the regional level.
Africa’s aviation industry has undergone a significant transformation. The CBC has contributed not only to the funding of Ethiopian Airlines but also to other critical infrastructure projects. Mr. Teddy Soobramanien, Chief Executive Officer of CBC, highlighted the growing influence of geotechnology in African industries. Over the past five years, impact assessments have been conducted in countries such as Malawi, Zambia, and Ethiopia.
Beyond its strategic support, CBC ensures that SMEs and private sector stakeholders gain access to knowledge on regional trade and integration. In this regard, CBC offers a dedicated E-Learning System in collaboration with BizNet, and has accumulated valuable experience through training workshops on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Dr. Mohamedian Seid, CEO of the Regional Association of Energy Regulators for Eastern and Southern Africa (RAERESA), strongly emphasized challenges related to insufficient physical energy infrastructure and inadequate market design. The gap between regional integration and border security often lies in coordination between regulatory authorities a space where RAERESA is actively engaged.
RAERESA workshop on electricity regulation in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Finally, Dr. Jonathan Pinifolo, Chief Operating Officer of the CBC’s Development Finance Institution (DFI) Program, emphasized the need to prioritize environmental protection. This focus not only boosts productivity but also encourages SMEs and private sector actors to become active partners within the CBC framework.
Ermias Tilahun | Correspondent
