This project specifically aims at improving the efficiency of the participation of African countries in the activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). The ultimate outcome is the proper formulation of international standards on food safety and animal and plant health. The services of the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU/IBAR) and the Inter-African Phytosanitary Council (AU-IAPSC) have been enlisted and will be imparted through the seven Regional Economic Communities (RECs).

This  four day Workshop will address the following main themes: Modalities for creating and/or strengthening National SPS Committees; Promotion of links between private sector stakeholders having a stake in SPS issues with the public sector; and Participation of the private sector in the assessment of standards and to obtain their proposals of standards.

The component on SPS will complement the efforts being put in so as to enhance the competitiveness of the crop, livestock and food sector in Mauritius. Through the regional cross border initiative, there exists a huge potential to develop these three sectors by promoting the intra- and inter-regional trade. Accordingly there is need for developing coordinated policies and harmonised systems for effective regional trade in agricultural commodities, thus SPS issues have to be harmonised to facilitate movement and trade of these commodities.

Mr. Brian Nsofu, Assistant Secretary General (Programmes) of COMESA, is attending this Workshop.