Source: New Vision(Kampala), 3 April 2006
by Joyce Namutebi
GREAT Lakes Region member states are working on two projects to fight illegal exploitation of natural resources in the region, ensure their efficient management and conservation of the environment.
The projects titled 'Regional initiative against illegal exploitation of natural resources' and 'Proposal on the regional mechanism for certification of natural resources' are part of the nine protocols and 31 projects expected to be adopted by the summit of heads of state scheduled for September.
The second regional meeting of financial experts from the region that closed on Wednesday focused on aggregating budgets, taking into account financial sources with the countries' national, local, regional, private sector and donor assistance.
The region consists of 11 countries including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, Sudan, Angola, the Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic.
The meeting was also attended by officials from the African Union, the UN and the Group of Friends.
In a report, the financial experts said, "Due to the complexities of the process of certification of natural resources, the meeting reiterated the need to prioritise the natural resources targeted for certification."
The project is expected to cost $94,215.
