Mrs. Kanini Mutooni, Director – Investment, East Africa Trade and Investment Hub (EATIH) made a courtesy visit to COMESA/LLPI on August 17, 2016. She was warmly welcomed by Prof. Mwinyihija Mwinyikione, Executive Director of COMES/LLPI and the Institute’s Expert Team. The visit was part of the operationalization of the MoU signed between the two Institutions (EATIH and COMESA/LLPI). The two parties (Mrs. Mutooni and COMESA/LLPI Team) made fruitful discussions to fast-track collaborative activities between the two institutions. Mrs. Mutooni took cognizance of LLPI’s excellent performance in the region and commended the Institute in its successful engagement with the various member States in the development of leather sector and this was pertinent in EATIH drive to partner with LLPI in progressing important social economic indicators to the next phase.
The Regional Design Studio Project which was initiated by COMESA/LLPI in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat was considered as a potential area where support from EATIH will considerably contribute towards enhanced leather sector development in the East African Community countries.
Mrs Mutooni indicated potential opportunities in skills development of SMEs, strengthening of ICT facilities and furtherance of trade that could be availed for relevant institutions to bid competitively. Fundamental areas of agreement between the two institutions is to enhance wealth creation, poverty alleviation, improve gender parity and stimulate rural development to improve the quality of life in the Eastern part of Africa.