The Economic Community of West Africa has conducted a training program for Nigerian women, aiming to equip them with essential skills for successful intra-African trade.
Recently held in Lagos, the event, titled “Capacity Building for the Federation of Businesswomen West Africa on Access to Regional and Continental Markets under the Trade Regime,” welcomed participants.
Alaba Lawson, President of The Ecowas Federation of Businesswomen and Entrepreneurs, stated that the event’s primary goal is to include women from the ECOWAS region in the African Continental Free Trade Area, ensuring the smooth movement of goods and addressing challenges collaboratively.
Raymond Dagana, Trade and Private Sector Adviser at Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit, highlighted the Trade Facilitation West Africa Programme’s aim to streamline regional and global trade, simplifying trade processes and supporting efficient movement of goods.
President Wale Cole of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry stressed the significance of commitment for the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) agreement.
He noted that while external nations may not fully support it, understanding complex trade deals and promoting active regional and continental trade agreements is crucial.
Cole underlined the potential benefits of AFCFTA, estimating a substantial GDP increase and improved livelihoods in participating nations.
He emphasized the need to assist female-led businesses with regional trade access and support them through workshops and information sharing.
He asserted that African unity is essential for the success of AFCFTA, which aims to eliminate trade barriers, create value chains, attract investments, stimulate job creation, and enhance Africa’s competitiveness and economic growth.
