Heads of the East African Community member states on agreeing to set up a mechanism that will promote growth and protection of textile and tanner industries in East Africa. The council of ministers is currently working out modalities to enhance implementation of the agreement by Heads of State to revive textile and tanner industries.

The Minister for East African Cooperation, Dr Harrison Mwakyembe, after the conclusion of the 16th EAC Summit for Heads of Stated said in Dar es Salaam that the region was committed to utilizing effectively the potential in textile and skins and hides industries to reduce dependence on importation of second-hand clothes and shoes.

The minister was explicit on the implementation of the plan insisting that the population had nothing to worry about as no inconvenience would be caused and socio-economic stability would be guaranteed. As for the wider picture, the plan is to spur trade with the community and beyond.

Of late, importation of second- hand clothes took their toll in all five major cities let alone other district headquarters.

Despite the fact that a section of the community make gains from the business, the future of the region in terms of textile industry remained uncertain. Textile industry can offer employment to millions in the region.

Effective March 16, 2015, officials from concerned ministries, namely, Trade, Tourism and EA Cooperation will meet in Arusha to lay down the basis of discussion to end the impasse for the region to move forward, Ms Mapunjo explained.

President Jakaya Kikwete is the current Regional Chairman of EAC and Tanzania will remain exemplary in the implementation of various agreed items.

Nairobi hosted the 16th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre in Nairobi. The summit was preceded by 30th Extraordinary Meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers.