Africa is entering a transformative era. With the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the continent has an unprecedented opportunity to deepen regional integration, expand intra-African trade and unlock sustainable economic growth. Yet, the true success of this vision will depend on ensuring that women, who are the backbone of Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, are fully equipped to seize these opportunities.
This is the driving force behind the Africa Women in Trade Forum (AWTF), a platform dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering cross-border collaboration and advancing inclusive trade across Africa.
For Salome Kavindu, President of OWIT Kenya, the conversation around trade must move beyond participation to leadership.
“Women are already driving Africa’s economies through entrepreneurship, innovation and resilience. The next step is ensuring they have equal access to markets, finance, information and strategic partnerships. When women thrive in trade, entire economies benefit. Our responsibility is to create the environment that enables them to lead confidently across borders.” — Salome Kavindu, President, OWIT Kenya
As the convenor of AWTF, OWIT Kenya continues to champion initiatives that equip women entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks and resources needed to compete in regional and international markets. Through capacity building, policy advocacy and partnerships, the organisation is helping bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity.
The Africa Women in Trade Forum was established to complement these efforts by creating a continental platform where women can connect, collaborate and learn from one another while exploring practical solutions to the challenges they face in cross-border trade.
According to Derby Hassan, AWTF Lead, the vision extends far beyond hosting conferences and networking events.
“AWTF was created because we recognised that African women need more than inspiration, they need access, collaboration and action. Our goal is to build a continent-wide community that connects entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors and development partners to unlock real opportunities for women-led businesses. Every initiative we undertake is designed to move women from potential to participation, and from participation to leadership.” — Derby Hassan, AWTF Lead
This vision is already taking shape through AWTF’s growing calendar of webinars, strategic dialogues, partnerships and the upcoming inaugural Africa Women in Trade Summit. The summit will bring together leaders from across Africa to explore solutions that strengthen regional value chains, promote women-led enterprises and maximise the opportunities presented by AfCFTA.
A defining strength of the Africa Women in Trade Forum is its collaborative foundation. AWTF is being developed in partnership with fellow OWIT chapters across Africa and beyond, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing women-led trade beyond national boundaries. By bringing together the collective expertise, networks and experiences of chapters from different countries, the Forum creates a truly continental platform where best practices are exchanged, regional partnerships are forged and women entrepreneurs gain greater access to opportunities across African markets. This collaborative approach embodies the spirit of AfCFTA, breaking down barriers, strengthening regional integration and ensuring that women are at the forefront of Africa’s trade and economic transformation.
Beyond business, AWTF is equally committed to developing future leaders. The Forum recognises that sustainable trade must include young entrepreneurs who will shape Africa’s economic landscape for decades to come. By creating platforms for mentorship, innovation and knowledge exchange, AWTF is investing in the next generation of women leaders.
The journey towards inclusive trade cannot be achieved by one organisation alone. It requires governments, the private sector, financial institutions, development partners and civil society to work together in removing barriers and creating opportunities that allow women-owned businesses to flourish.
As preparations continue for the inaugural Africa Women in Trade Summit, the message from AWTF and OWIT is clear: the future of African trade must be inclusive, collaborative and driven by women who are ready to lead.
The continent has the talent. It has ambition. It has the opportunity.
Now is the time to ensure that Africa’s women are at the forefront of shaping its economic future.
I recommend that you learn from others in a competent, international association which helps develop your vision and gain the skills you need to achieve your goal. At OWIT International, I have learnt practical thought leadership. Join OWIT events on: www.owit.org for insights and strategies on networking.
Author: Salome Kavindu, is the VP Programs of OWIT International, and the OWIT Kenya President. Derby Hassan, is the AWTF Lead and the VP Marketing at OWIT Kenya.
