East African Community (EAC), Japan and United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) join forces to strengthen Border Security and enhance regional trade. aalqali October 24, 2026 You may also like. The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has handed over 16 patrol vehicles to EAC Partner States to strengthen border security operations, combat cross-border crime and illicit activities and facilitate safer movement of people and goods. Each of the eight EAC Partner States is receiving two vehicles for use at key and porous border points. Beyond their immediate operational use, the vehicles are also expected to contribute to the EAC's broader vision of regional integration by supporting a safer and more predictable environment for cross-border trade, investment and economic activity. The initiative is funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) under a project dubbed as Creating a Secure Trading and Customs Environment in the East African Community through Enhancing Border Security. The initiative responds to operational challenges identified through technical assessments conducted by the EAC Secretariat at One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) across the region. The assessments highlighted gaps in transport and mobility that constrained border security operations and effective responses to cross-border crime. By improving the mobility of border security personnel, the vehicles are expected to strengthen patrol operations, support more timely responses to security threats and enhance efforts to address smuggling, trafficking and other illicit cross-border activities. Speaking during the official handover ceremony at the EAC Headquarters, EAC Secretary General, Amb. Stephen P. Mbundi, expressed appreciation to the Government and People of Japan for their generous support towards the successful implementation of the project and to UNOPS for its efficiency in coordinating and delivering the vehicles. The Secretary General noted that the findings of the technical assessment informed the decision to prioritise transport support for frontline officers across all eight Partner States. "We expect these vehicles to strengthen border operations and contribute to a safer and more enabling environment for cross-border trade. I urge all Partner States to ensure that the vehicles are deployed exclusively at designated border areas to serve their intended purpose," said Amb. Mbundi. The Secretary General added that the borders help protect its communities, combat smuggling, trafficking and other transnational crimes, while creating the confidence needed for legitimate trade, investment and the movement of people and goods to flourish. Beyond their immediate operational use, the vehicles are also expected to contribute to the EAC's broader vision of regional integration by supporting a safer and more predictable environment for cross-border trade, investment and economic activity. The contribution by the Government of Japan directly supports the EAC's efforts to address these challenges through practical investments in border security infrastructure and equipment. Jin Hashimoto, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Japan in Tanzania, reaffirmed Japan's commitment to regional peace and development. "Effective border management is essential not only for preventing illicit activities and ensuring security, but also for facilitating legitimate trade and the movement of people. Japan remains committed to being a trusted partner for African countries, working alongside them in accordance with their needs and priorities," he said. Through its procurement expertise, UNOPS supported the acquisition of the patrol vehicles to ensure the investment contributes to border authorities' operational readiness and the region's broader security priorities. "The value of this partnership goes beyond the delivery of vehicles. Border security is not only about protecting boundaries; it is about creating the conditions for communities and economies to thrive," said Massimo Diana, Director of UNOPS East and Southern Africa Multi-Country Office. "By working alongside the Government of Japan and the EAC, UNOPS is translating shared regional priorities into practical solutions that strengthen institutional capacity, facilitate legitimate trade and advance economic integration across East Africa," he added. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of East African Community (EAC). Post Views: 12

UNOPS and ADB sign new framework agreement to boost development across Asia and the Pacific. Add us as your preferred source on Google to see more of our content in Search. The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has signed a letter of intent with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to address development challenges across Asia and the Pacific, with a particular focus on fragile and conflict-affected situations and Small Island Developing States. The agreement, announced on 22 October 2026, was formalized during a meeting in Manila between UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva and ADB President Masato Kanda, according to a press release by UNOPS. The new framework agreement will combine the expertise of both organizations to deliver results where needs are greatest and progress is hardest to achieve. It builds on an existing partnership that has already produced tangible outcomes in the region. The thesis of the agreement is to turn ambitious development goals into practical action. UNOPS and ADB have developed a working relationship across Asia, including in challenging contexts, delivering results in areas such as health and governance. The partnership has focused on reaching communities where implementation is most difficult. The two organizations have cooperated to overcome barriers that often limit the effectiveness of development financing. The renewed framework reflects lessons learned from this joint work. It also signals an intent to explore new areas of cooperation. Through the new agreement, ADB and UNOPS will concentrate on four key areas of support. These include providing targeted assistance to vulnerable regions through technical assistance, sustainable infrastructure and operational expertise, as well as strengthening national systems and local capacities. The partnership will also promote sustainable procurement. In addition, both organizations will work to accelerate progress across climate resilience, renewable energy, urban development, health and access to clean water. The focus will remain on contexts where delivery is most complex. "In fragile and conflict-affected settings, financing development is only part of the challenge. Delivering projects and essential services on the ground can be even harder. Our cooperation with UNOPS has helped us overcome these barriers and reach communities where implementation is most difficult," said Masato Kanda, President of ADB. Jorge Moreira da Silva noted that he was delighted to have signed the new framework agreement to continue the partnership. He highlighted its particular focus on fragile and conflict-affected situations and Small Island Developing States. Together, UNOPS and ADB will work to build a more resilient and inclusive future for people in Asia and the Pacific. The partnership places a strong emphasis on local ownership. It also advances sustainable development across the region. The framework agreement provides a structured basis for continued cooperation. Both organizations intend to build on what they have already achieved together.