Regional Workshop Boosts Africa’s Trade Integration

Officially opened by Madame Zenaba Gninga Chaning, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Trade and SMEs/SMIs of Gabon, the event was organized in partnership with the Centre for Regional Integration in Africa (CRIA) and Phanerosis Global Platform, with support from the African Development Bank, Afreximbank, and the AfCFTA Secretariat.

This hybrid training featured sessions on AfCFTA protocols, payment systems, trade negotiations, dispute resolution, and SME integration. Participants also visited Gabon’s Food Safety Agency (AGASA) to explore how national institutions can support trade readiness.

With strong participation from women and youth-led enterprises, the workshop emphasized practical capacity building and inclusive networks as essential drivers of Africa’s trade potential.

We’ve learned a lot from this workshop. One key takeaway for me was the protocol on digital trade. Understanding the rules and laws that govern digital trade in Africa is vital for our business. It helps us identify new opportunities and apply what we’ve learned to grow as African entrepreneurs.

Tlamelo Cindy Melemo,
Founder, SoftBerry Solutions, Botswana

The methodology was very engaging. It wasn’t just a lecture-style session but a real exchange of experiences. Everyone contributed and learned from each other. I believe it’s now our responsibility to go back and serve as ambassadors for what we’ve learned over these three days.

Richard G. Odjrado,
Founder & CEO, AS World Tech

I’m grateful to be part of this training, and to the organizers for making it possible. I’ve gained practical insights into the AfCFTA and how young people can use it not only to participate in intra-African trade but also to share this knowledge with others who couldn’t be here today.

Ndegen Jobe,
Deputy Speaker, National Youth Parliament, The Gambia