East African Community unveils horticultural council; Ms Mkindi appointed Chair

Arusha. The East Africa region has launched the Horticulture Council of Eastern Africa (HoCEA), a platform aimed at supporting growth in the horticultural sector.

The council will focus on addressing challenges and opportunities in the industry, aiming to improve the region’s competitiveness on the global stage.

The CEO of the Tanzania Horticultural Association (Taha), Ms Jacqueline Mkindi, has been appointed as the first Chairperson.

The council will be guided by Ms Mkindi and other leaders from key horticultural organisations, including CEO of the Kenya Flower Council, Mr Clement Tulezi, who will serve as Secretary, and the Executive Director of the Uganda Flower Exporters Association, Ms Esther Nekambi, who will serve in the capacity as the council’s Treasurer.

HoCEA's goals include the development of a quality mark and branding strategy, plant health monitoring, improved market access, and enhanced logistics for better supply chains.

Ms Mkindi expressed confidence in the council’s ability to drive industry growth. “With strong leadership and focus, we are set to improve competitiveness,” she said in Arusha.

She also acknowledged the support of TradeMark Africa, which has aided in improving market access and trade.

The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has also developed a strategy for the Fruits and Vegetables Value Chain for 2021-2031, aiming to increase intra-EAC trade to $25 million and global exports to $1.3 billion by 2031. Currently, intra-EAC trade stands at about $10 million.

The fruits and vegetables sector contributes between 20 and 36 percent to the region’s GDP.

With the launch of HoCEA, East Africa aims to strengthen its position in the global horticultural market.