African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) signals the start of an Africa We Want. Advancing continental integrationin trade is critical if Africa is to drive its economic agenda. Expectations of African citizens run high; business communities are keen to see trade barriers lifted. A transformative AfCFTA requires inclusion of the continent’s women & youth. Our work has established that cultural & structural barriers remain stumbling blocks to women & youth. Capacity building has enabled this critical group acquire skills; but what next? At the backdrop of AfCFTA, speakers will discuss: Policy considerations for parity; Engaging women and youth in regional value chains (market access, logistics, ICT); Collective Power; Actions to increase inclusion & unlock structural barriers.
