Members of the Programme Steering Committee for the European Union funded Institutional Capacity Building Programme (ICBP) at COMESA Secretariat and EU Delegation in Zambia met in Lusaka to review progress in implementation of the Programme.
Funded under the 11th European Development Fund, the initiative continues to be a cornerstone in COMESA’s efforts to strengthen institutional effectiveness and deepen regional integration.
Speaking at the opening of the Meeting on Tuesday 15 April 2025, COMESA Acting Secretary General Dr Dev Haman reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment towards regional integration and transformation of the lives of the people. He said this could only achieved by the organsation having a well-functioning, effective and efficient Secretariat to coordinate all the different programmes in the 21 Member States.
He commended the European Union for its continued support to COMESA which has resulted in the organisation achieving many tangible results. Through the ICBP, the Secretariat has fully operationalised the COMESA Online Monitoring and Evaluation System, modernised the procurement and financial management frameworks, strengthened the regional statistical capacity and gender-responsiveness. The organisation also enhanced communication, visibility, and stakeholder dialogue, through activities such as the COMESA Week held in Madagascar.
EU Delegation to Zambia Programme Manager Christiane Haziyo described the meeting as an opportunity to track progress, discuss challenges and map out the way forward to full implementation.
She through the 6.89 million European Development Fund, the EU’s partnership has been more than just a funding relationship, but a shared commitment to building stronger institutions, fostering policy coherence, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development in the COMESA region.
“Allow me to express our sincere appreciation for your continued commitment and collaboration in advancing the goals of regional integration and institutional strengthening across your Member States,”
The Steering Committee plays a guiding role while reviewing and validating the programme’s achievements to ensure transparency, inclusivity and impact.
As we reflect on the last year, let’s feel be encouraged by the progress made across the programme’s four result areas.