UN Women and EABC Launch Strategic Partnership to Transform Business Landscape for Women

Signatories: Dr. Paulina Chiwangu - Country Representative, UN Women, Uganda and John Bosco Kalisa - CEO, East Africa Business Council (EABC)

In a groundbreaking initiative, UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and women's empowerment, has joined forces with the East Africa Business Council (EABC) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This strategic alliance aims to collaboratively address gender disparities and empower women in the business sector across East Africa.

Signed by representatives from both organizations, today December 1, 2023, the MOU solidifies their commitment to enhancing opportunities for women in various business spheres, including trade, policy advocacy, digital inclusion, capacity building, and research initiatives.

Dr. Paulina Chiwangu, the Country Representative of UN Women, Uganda, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "UN Women is delighted to formalize this partnership with the East Africa Business Council. This collaboration reflects our joint commitment to promote gender equality and provide tangible support to women entrepreneurs and business leaders in the region."

The EABC, a key regional body promoting trade and investment, views this collaboration as integral to fostering an inclusive business environment. John Bosco Kalisa, CEO of the East Africa Business Council, remarked, "We are proud to collaborate with UN Women to further our efforts in supporting women in business. This partnership aligns with our vision of enabling women's participation in trade and economic activities, amplifying their voices, and creating sustainable opportunities."

The MOU outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation between UN Women and EABC, covering joint resource mobilization, advocacy and policy dialogue, advancing women in cross-border trade, digital inclusion, capacity building and training programs, research and knowledge management, business development services, awareness-raising campaigns, and partnership building.

Signifying a commitment to transparency and mutual respect, the agreement is effective for three years and is extendable by mutual agreement. Both organizations are optimistic about the collaborative potential outlined in the agreement and anticipate substantial progress in advancing gender equality and women's empowerment in the business landscape across East Africa.