The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in collaboration with the government of Kenya, recently hosted the fourth Ministerial Council meeting of the LAPSSET Corridor program. The theme of the meeting was “Unleashing Potential: The LAPSSET Corridor as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development, Seamless Connectivity, Regional Integration, and Trade.” The event took place in Lamu County, Kenya on 21-22 August 2024 and was attended by government officials, representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Sudan, development partners, and business leaders.

The LAPSSET Corridor program in Eastern Africa promotes trade and cultural exchange, with Lamu playing a key role. The Joint Technical Committee (JTC plans to finalize a regional coordination mechanism by September to maximize corridor benefits in partner states.

Mr. Isati Mame, the Governor of Lamu, extended a warm welcome to government officials, delegates, stakeholders, and all participants in the region. He emphasized the LAPSSET Corridor project as a comprehensive infrastructure network, describing it as a bold and visionary initiative with the potential to transform the economic and social landscape of Eastern Africa. Mr. Mame emphasized inclusive, sustainable development, promoting environmental protection, community rights, and equitable growth.