ARUSHA, Oct. 26 -- THE government of Japan has donated 16 patrol vehicles to East African Community (EAC) for border security operations to combat smuggling, curb cross-border crime and facilitate regional trade.

The vehicles were provided under a border security enhancement project implemented through collaboration between the EAC, the Japanese government and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

Each of the EACs eight member states received two vehicles, which will be handed over to police departments and other relevant institutions for their intended use.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Arusha over the weekend, EAC Secretary General, Ambassador Stephen Mbundi, urged member states to ensure the vehicles are...