• The programme targets government institutions and private sector operators, including women-led MSMEs

• Supported by Japan and delivered with TradeMark Africa, Google and other partners

• Training aligns with the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol and runs in Addis Ababa from 25–27 November

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in partnership with the Government of Japan, has launched a capacity-building programme to strengthen African governments' and businesses' ability to use digital tools for regional trade. Implemented through ECA’s African Trade Policy Centre and the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning, the initiative is backed by a USD $1 million grant from Japan.

The programme, titled “Boosting Intra-African Trade through Leveraging Digitalization for Effective and Inclusive AfCFTA Implementation,” targets AfCFTA State Parties. It focuses specifically on supporting government institutions and private-sector operators—particularly women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—in countries including Namibia, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, and Tanzania.

Key deliverables include the development of national digital trade portals, a continental database on raw materials and inputs for the textiles and apparel sector, and step-by-step guides for trading under the AfCFTA. Additionally, the project features a capacity development programme offering targeted training for government officials and women entrepreneurs.

Strengthening Japan-Africa Cooperation

Stephen Karingi, Director of ECA’s Regional Integration and Trade Division, noted that the partnership "reflects our shared vision for a digitally empowered and economically integrated Africa. It will unlock new opportunities for SMEs, especially women-led businesses, and deepen Japan-Africa cooperation on trade and technology.”

Mr. SUGIO Toru, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Mission of Japan to the African Union, emphasized the project's potential impact. “Let this project not just be a set of deliverables, but a catalyst for real change—a change that enables African businesses to thrive, regional value chains to flourish, and the promise of the AfCFTA to be fully realized,” he said.

The launch coincides with the recent adoption of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, which provides a framework for lowering digital trade costs and improving the interoperability of national systems. The ECA training is designed to support institutions responsible for implementing the protocol by providing practical guidance on integrating digital solutions into trade processes.

To kickstart the initiative, a workshop is being held in Addis Ababa from 25 to 27 November in a hybrid format. The event includes peer-learning sessions, exchanges with regional partners, and presentations from SMEs selected for their interest in using digital technologies to expand their market reach.

The programme is implemented in collaboration with TradeMark Africa, Google, and other partners working on digital trade systems. It also lays the foundation for future online modules to be hosted on ECA’s digital learning platforms.

Cynthia Ebot Takang