Nearly ten years after the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was launched, many small businesses across Africa report that its benefits remain largely inaccessible. Despite the promise of a unified African market, entrepreneurs face persistent obstacles including poor infrastructure, complex border procedures, and limited trade opportunities.

In an interview with International Trade Centre (ITC) Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton, it was highlighted that many micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have yet to fully benefit from AfCFTA, even as implementation progresses. To address critical challenges such as access to finance, the ITC has partnered with Equity Group to expand trade finance for priority sectors. This partnership also aims to provide entrepreneurs, particularly young business owners, with enhanced access to market intelligence, business support services, and regional networks.

The discussion further emphasized the importance of economic diversification and green certifications to help African businesses become more competitive and resilient in both regional and global markets.

In related developments, Togo is advancing its technology sector by supporting a local company that assembles computers from imported components. This initiative is designed to boost domestic IT manufacturing, train local engineers, and create skilled employment opportunities, contributing to the country's long-term industrial growth.

Meanwhile, Egypt's informal recycling hub known as "Garbage City" is experiencing increased demand. Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have limited imports of plastic raw materials, prompting manufacturers to rely more on locally recycled plastics, thereby providing an unexpected boost to the recycling industry.

These examples illustrate ongoing efforts across Africa to bring the goals of AfCFTA closer to local businesses and foster sustainable economic development.

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