East Africa Development Ltd – Charitable Company

One of the significant projects we have been working on over the past months has been the establishment of a charitable company here in Tanzania.  The process has been frustrating at  times, dealing with the bureaucracy such as the Companies Office losing our first application and also being made to re-sign the Memorandum of Association because we had initialled every page (to lessen the potential for fraud) instead of just signing on the last page!

The primary purposes of the company are:

- To provide quality goods and services, which add value to East Africa and its infrastructure.
- To provide meaningful employment and training for Tanzanians and those of East Africa.
- To operate the business in a manner that is consistent with an ethical, character based and socially responsible approach, being a model for other business people to follow.
- To create funds which can be used for various charitable purposes
- To partner with the Business College we are starting in 2010, thereby providing hands on business training for those in the course and potential employment for graduates.

Our first project is to commercialise our Garage, we currently operate as a repair-shop for the cars of the residents of The Joshua Foundation and those of some other missions.  We have been working on the processes, resources required and marketing strategy over the past few weeks.  We are currently finalising rrangements for suitable commercial premises and once this is finalised we will be free to commence our commercial operations. 

Richard traveled to Dubai in September to continue negotiations for another opportunity regarding the importation of a particularly exciting product to Africa.  We can not say any more about this at present – however the potential of this opportunity is exciting.

Involvement Opportunities:

For those who are perhaps asking how they may become involved with the various business projects, below is a list of possibilities: 

- Contribute funds to finalise the company set-up, including gaining full charitable status from the Tanzanian Revenue (tax) Authority (approx US$1500).
- Capital to commence and enhance the various business ventures
- Expertise to assist with up-skilling our mechanics and other employees
- Lecturers and mentors to assist with the Business School in 2010
- Resources such as computers, textbooks, furniture etc for the business school

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