Opoku-Agyemang Calls for Stronger Support for Women and Youth in Africa’s Cross-Border Trade

Introduction

Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its economic development, with women and youth increasingly recognized as key drivers of innovation and growth. Yet, despite their rising influence in venture capital and creative industries, their participation in cross-border trade remains disproportionately low. Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has highlighted this critical gap, calling for targeted policies and robust support systems to unlock the full potential of women and young people in Africa’s global commerce. This article explores the challenges, opportunities, and actionable steps needed to bridge this divide.

Key Points

Background

Africa’s demographic landscape is uniquely positioned for economic transformation. Over 60% of the continent’s population is under the age of 25, making it the youngest continent in the world. This youthful population is increasingly driving innovation in sectors such as financial technology, creative industries, and digital entrepreneurship. However, their dynamism is not translating into significant participation in cross-border trade, a sector critical for economic diversification and growth.

Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, speaking at the African Prosperity Dialogues 2026, emphasized the need for urgent action. She noted that while women and youth are leading venture capital initiatives and creative ventures, systemic barriers continue to limit their access to international markets. These barriers include limited access to finance, inadequate marketing linkages, and structural inefficiencies within regional trading systems.

Analysis

The Current State of Women and Youth in African Trade

Despite their potential, women and youth in Africa face significant challenges in participating in cross-border trade. According to recent data, fewer than 20% of SMEs are involved in export activities. This low participation rate is attributed to several factors:

– **Limited Access to Finance**: Women and young entrepreneurs often struggle to secure funding for their ventures, limiting their ability to scale operations or enter international markets.
– **Structural Barriers**: Regional trading systems in Africa are often fragmented, with complex regulations and high transaction costs that disproportionately affect smaller businesses.
– **Lack of Skills and Training**: Many women and youth lack the technical and business skills required to navigate international trade, such as understanding export procedures, compliance standards, and market dynamics.

The Role of Policy and Institutional Support

To address these challenges, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang called for targeted policies that prioritize the inclusion of women and youth in trade. This includes:

– **Access to Finance**: Governments and financial institutions must develop tailored financial products, such as low-interest loans and grants, to support women and youth entrepreneurs.
– **Skills Development**: Investment in training programs that equip women and youth with the skills needed for international trade, including digital literacy, export management, and market research.
– **Institutional Reforms**: Streamlining regional trading systems to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and create a more conducive environment for SMEs to engage in cross-border trade.

The Economic Implications

Without deliberate efforts to integrate women and youth into Africa’s trade ecosystem, the continent risks remaining locked in low-productivity models. Currently, many African economies rely heavily on raw material exports while importing finished goods, a dynamic that limits economic diversification and job creation. By empowering women and youth to participate in value-added industries and international markets, Africa can unlock new sources of growth and reduce its dependence on commodity exports.

Practical Advice

For Policymakers

1. **Develop Inclusive Trade Policies**: Design policies that specifically address the needs of women and youth entrepreneurs, such as simplified export procedures and targeted financial support.
2. **Invest in Infrastructure**: Improve physical and digital infrastructure to facilitate cross-border trade, including transport networks, customs facilities, and e-commerce platforms.
3. **Promote Regional Integration**: Strengthen regional economic communities to create larger, more integrated markets that benefit SMEs.

For Financial Institutions

1. **Create Tailored Financial Products**: Develop loan and grant programs that cater to the unique needs of women and youth entrepreneurs, such as flexible repayment terms and lower collateral requirements.
2. **Offer Technical Assistance**: Provide training and advisory services to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of international trade.

For Entrepreneurs

1. **Leverage Digital Tools**: Use e-commerce platforms and digital marketing to reach international customers and reduce reliance on traditional trade channels.
2. **Build Networks**: Join trade associations and business networks to access resources, mentorship, and market opportunities.
3. **Invest in Skills**: Participate in training programs to build expertise in export management, compliance, and market analysis.

FAQ

Conclusion

Africa’s economic future depends on its ability to harness the potential of its women and youth. By addressing the structural barriers that limit their participation in cross-border trade, the continent can unlock new sources of growth, innovation, and prosperity. Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s call for stronger support systems is a timely reminder of the urgent need for action. Through targeted policies, investments in skills development, and institutional reforms, Africa can create a more inclusive and dynamic trade ecosystem that benefits all its citizens.