Africa is advancing its economic development agenda rapidly. Young people are demanding not just jobs but fulfilling careers that give them control over their futures. Trade has the power to make that happen, and it is up to us to connect the dots between trade policies and the real change that the continent is pursuing.
Leaders in Africa, therefore, must collaborate and put concerted efforts to guide the continent towards a one Africa future, where under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area frameworks, trade is a transformative force. Trade, often seen as a complex web of transactions, is fundamentally a vehicle of opportunity. To leverage this, TradeMark Africa is partnering with governments across the continent to grow intra-African trade and increase Africa’s share in global trade, while helping make trade more pro-poor and more environmentally sustainable. The strategy is three pronged: First, by reducing the time and cost of trading across borders, countries can lower prices and make essential goods and services accessible to more people. Second, streamlined trade processes creates export opportunities for export-oriented businesses, so stimulating further investment and growth. And third, a conducive business environment catalyses the creation of jobs and empowers small and medium enterprises. This environment invites innovation, attracts investments, and builds the foundations on which nations can thrive.
To unlock Africa’s trade potential, we must embrace digital innovation.
Theme: Digital Trade
With our shared goals for a prosperous Africa in mind, we are re-establishing the Africa Trade Development Forum, a gathering aimed at propelling advancements in trade facilitation and shaping a strategic voice for trade across the continent. This year, the Government of Rwanda is proud to co-host the event in Kigali from December 2 to 3, 2024. Building on the successes of previous fora held in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2018, and 2019, this platform will bring together Heads of States and senior Government Officials, Development Partners, Academicians, Multilateral Organisations and Private Sector leaders and innovators to discuss and make decisions that will achieve our vision of a thriving Africa.
- December 2-3, 2024
- Mariott Hotel, Kigali Rwanda.
Kigali is prepared to host The Africa Trade Development Forum. Africa is advancing its economic development agenda rapidly. Young people are demanding not just jobs but fulfilling careers that give them control over their futures. Trade has the power to make that happen, and it is up to us to connect the dots between trade policies and the real change that the continent is pursuing.
Topic of Discussion
Participants will discuss innovative digital trade practices and technologies already adopted in the continent and future opportunities. The following will be explored: