The EUBG Tanzania, Interview of Rodrigo Romero Van Cutsem

In 2012, following similar initiatives conducted in other African countries, the EU Delegation in Tanzania embarked in the creation of a European Union Business Group (EUBG). Four years later, the EUBG Tanzania is an independent, financial sustained organisation, comprising of 118 members from 15 countries and 20 different sectors of industry.

Rodrigo Romero Van Cutsem is sharing the EUD to Tanzania’s experience in setting up the local EUBG.

What steps did you follow to set up the EUBG?

R.VC.: To start with, we went through a process of conceptualising our business group. We launched an online survey to understand the needs of the private sector and their willingness to come together. One very important step was the mobilisation of a core group of Champions. It was a challenging task, as we had few contacts in the business community. We needed to identify those who had the commitment, but also the power to expand and communicate further. We started little, but after a while we had this champions group with whom we developed the whole concept, strategy, paperwork, etc.

What do you consider to be a key success factor for such a project?

R.VC.: When you decide to engage in such an initiative, you need to conceptualise it, consider the economic and political environment that surrounds you. It is also very important to consider the other stakeholders to be involved with, and in particular EU Member States. They have to feel involved and understand the mutual benefit of the EUBG.

Could the EUBG Tanzania case be replicated?

R.VC.: The case of the EUBG in Tanzania is not a unique experience. It exists in other African countries such as Uganda, Ethiopia and Ghana. In many other countries, EU chambers of commerce exist and play a similar role. EUBGs are an instrument which can really provide us with valuable information and change the dialogue we have with different stakeholders: the private sector, other donors, but also the governments of our host countries. So yes - The EUBG model can be replicated if there is the need for it, and with a little bit of support. I believe that European Economic Diplomacy [link], and the European Investment Plan [link]  should now boost such initiatives. I would definitely invite colleagues to consider it and assess local willingness of various stakeholders to get involved.

One last piece of advice?

R.VC.: Launching an EUBG or similar initiative is a long process. It took us 2 years to actually launch the Group. It’s been active for 2 years now and although it is independent and sustainable, it still needs support from us, from EUMS, and others. Patience and energy, that’s my advice to colleagues! But if you have a good idea and you know how to sell it, you are already on the right track.

For more information:

• Practical Fiche on EUBG [link practical fiche]
• EUD to Tanzania
• Contact the TPSDE Help Desk
• Start the discussion below