A survey of basic education in 13 Eastern African countries (Madagascar, Burundi, Comores, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Botswana, Kenya, Lesotho, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, and Somalia) covers basic education programs and UNICEF's supporting role. Basic education is seen as a concept evolved in the region, involving formal school systems and educational programs for out-of-school children, adolescents, and adults; and having goals determined by political philosophies of different countries, with the overall aim of providing all citizens with education to prepare them for satisfying lives in their socio-cultural economic environment. Tables give statistics on basic education programs by country; indicate the importance attached to 20 basic education components; and chart unanimity on literacy, numeracy, and basic skills. Brief descriptions of Tanzania's community schools program and Somalia's nomadic education centers are presented. Important factors in the development of basic education are detailed: sharing experiences, generation of new ideas, personnel, infrastructures, and financing. UNICEF's role in supporting basic education is discussed, including regional programs, financing, relevance/effectiveness of UNICEF assistance, and problem areas. Recommendations call for future UNICEF assistance to advocacy, planning, programs and projects, preschool activities, inclusion of indigenous cultural elements in the curricula, and monitoring/evaluation activities. Appendices list objectives and characteristics of basic education, by country, and proposed themes for future regional meetings. (MH)