MARKUP II to boost value addition, jobs

DODOMA: THE second phase of the Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP II) will accelerate value addition in strategic crops, strengthen production chains and create more employment across the country, according to the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industrial Development, Zanzibar, Dr Said Seif Mzee.

Dr Mzee made the remarks on Wednesday in Dodoma while opening the third National Meeting of the Permanent Secretaries’ Committee on the MARKUP II Project.

This four-year phase (2023– 2027) builds on the successes and lessons of the first and targets sectors with high export potential, including coffee, leather, avocado, spices and beverages.

Dr Mzee noted that the programme specifically targets small and medium-scale industries, which play a vital role in job creation and economic growth within EAC member states.

He reiterated the key focus areas agreed upon in a previous meeting, stating that this phase focuses on enhancing value addition in coffee, leather, avocado, spices, and beverages, as well as improving packaging to meet international standards.

He added that the Dodoma meeting also reviewed preparations for the upcoming regional Permanent Secretaries’ session to be held in Bujumbura, Burundi, next month where national outcomes will form the basis for regional deliberations.

ALSO READ: Tanzania seeks to build value-added mining industries to create more jobs

Meanwhile, the MARKUP II Project Coordinator from the International Trade Centre (ITC), Safari Fungo, confirmed the programme’s regional scope.

He stated that MARKUP II is being implemented across six EAC member countries—Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan—with the main goal of enhancing the value chain of key agricultural and industrial products.

“For Tanzania, MARKUP II focuses on coffee, leather products, and packaging, sectors that are central to our efforts to boost exports and promote sustainable industrial growth,” said Mr. Fungo.

He said through stronger collaboration between governments, producers, and development partners, MARKUP II will help unlock new market opportunities and strengthen East Africa’s position in global trade.