Africa Trade Report 2022

AFRICA TRADE REPORT 2022

Table of Content

Introduction

Intra Africa Trade Session

Keynote Speech: How the AfCFTA implementation will lead to sustainable trade and development

Panel Discussion 1: AfCFTA role in industrialization and development of Africa

Presentation: Wealth Creation through sustainable Trade

Highlight African Brands participating in Intra Africa trade

Panel Discussion 2: Strategies for increased regional trade, through opportunities found in Regional Economic Communities

Global Trade Session

Panel Discussion: Global Trade opportunities for African businesses

Panel Discussion: How African businesses can participate in Global Value chains sustainably

Highlight African Brands participating in Global Trade

Panel Discussion: Global Trade as a catalyst to the Development of Africa

Digital Trade Session

Keynote Speach: How Digital Trade is a catalyst to enable more formal cross border trade in Africa

Panel Discussion: Unlocking the potential for digital trade through AfCFTA

Panel Discussion: How African brands can take advantage of digital trade to increase market share

Highlight African Brands doing business digitally

Women in Trade Session

Panel Discussion: Unlocking the potential for women to trade sustainably

Panel Discussion:What are the right and effective gender trade policies, that will promote more women to participate in formal trade - UNECA Facilitation

Highlight African Brands owned by African women

Panel Discussion: How economic empowerment of women will transform African Nations

AFRICA TRADE CONFERENCE

Introduction

This is the 2nd Edition of the “Africa Trade Report” by the Regal Africa Group. The report highlights insights from the Africa Trade Conference that was held on 10th and 11th November 2022. The conference was carried out virtually out of Nairobi, Kenya.

The theme this year was “Empowering Africans to participate in Intra Africa Trade and Global Trade sustainably”. The conference aims to inspire “Trading for Development”. The Stakeholders who attended the ATC2022 were from various African countries, the African Diaspora, the Global Business community, and Global Trade experts.

The conference was structured into four main sessions over the two days:

ATC Day One Morning: Intra Africa Trade Session

ATC Day One Afternoon: Global Trade Session

ATC Day Two Morning: Digital Trade Session

ATC Day Two Afternoon: Women in Trade Session

The Africa Trade Conference is an annual conference that seeks to play an important role in facilitating dialogue, advancing knowledge and information about wealth creation and trade opportunities in Africa. The ultimate goal is Wealth Creation for all Africans and Africa's Economic Development. The conference is brought to the world by Regal Africa, an organization that focuses on assisting our clients to “Create Wealth” through trade and investment. Regal Africa focuses on Transforming Families by enabling them to create generational wealth, Transforming Communities through family businesses, and Impacting Nations through participation in international trade and Investments.

Conference Main Objective

The Africa Trade Conference targets businesses that are interested in Intra Africa trade and Global trade opportunities. We will also discuss the opportunities that digital trade presents for Africans and why supporting women in trade is important for sustainable trade that leads to economic development. The conference is beneficial to trade experts and professionals who support the private and public sectors in Africa.

With the ongoing implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the growth of digital trade on the continent, we believe that this is the right time to have discussions on how we can support African businesses to be part of international trade in a sustainable manner.

Conference Specific Objectives:

Growth of more African businesses participating in Intra Africa Trade and Global Trade

Create awareness on how the AfCFTA will directly facilitate trade

Increase awareness of how businesses can participate in digital trade

Ensure more women gain access to information that enables them to export their goods and services in Africa and globally.

Encourage more businesses to use professional advisors to guide them on capacity building, access to markets, and access to finance.

Create a better understanding of what each African country produces and how Africans can form regional supply chains, global value chains, and manufacturing hubs.

Create awareness of great global African brands

ATC DAY ONE MORNING SESSION

Presentation: “Keynote Speech”

Bongolo Joy Kenewendo Africa Director and Special AdviserUN Climate Change High-Level Champions Keynote Speaker

After a detailed introduction by Anne Gaitha, Bogolo opened the address by emphasizing the transition from summits to solutions. Urgency was placed on implementation, sustainability, and unlocking finance to fund sustainable development. Bogolo lauded the recognition of climate finance and action as a catalyst for sustainable development and the eventual implementation of the developmental goals, based on the Paris agreement with common but differentiated responsibilities

“We recognize that not all of us have created this problem, and not all of us are at the same level of development and have benefited from these emissions,”.

Bogolo Kenewendo

She encouraged the push for increased investors as opposed to aid. Her organization recognized the need for the AfCFTA and Agenda 23 to create a joint strategy to build a green development pathway. Bogolo was confident of the potential benefit to Africa as they joined the global mission that was expressed at the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27). She gave an example of the need for companies to come together to create sustainability.

Another aggregation example is the Africa Business Leaders Coalition which collectively employs 1.5 million people across the continent. They have a collective commitment and futuristic approach to a green competitive economy and impact. The Nairobi Declaration on Sustainable Insurance. The insurers committed up to 14 million dollars to address climate and natural risks through an African Climate Risk Facility.

“The AfCFTA is a people’s project and will only move faster if non-state actors start to play a role in it and recognize that aggregation, coalitions, and coming together as a continent is the way to go and ensure that we have faster development,”

Bogolo Kenewendo

She re-emphasized the need for Africa to work together for all of us to get to the Africa we want. Regenerative agriculture was one of the practices that she credited to African culture that was abandoned for modernization. She encouraged Africa to see conservation as a return back to our indigenous knowledge and not a new concept. Bogolo concluded the speech by stating that we can be leaders in crafting the path for development and sustainability. She ended by addressing the issue of the private sector in African countries in delivering nationally determined obligations. Bogolo encouraged awareness among African countries so that they could recognize the opportunity in climate finance and sustainable solutions. Finally, she insisted on the importance of positioning so that green capital could be injected from within the continent. The role of the continent was to align with the rest of the globe to embrace what is soon to become a norm.

Watch Bogolo’ Keynote today on RegalAfrica TV via https://youtu.be/kn51u2HA5Wc

TRADE not AID is the answer for Africa’s prosperity

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Panel Session 1: AfCFTA role in industrialization and development of Africa

Moderator: Anne Wambui Gaitha, CEO - Regal Africa Group

Panelists:

Hermogene Nsengimana; Secretary General -African Organisation for Standardisation

Waleed El-Zomor; Executive Director -New Start for Medical Tourism & Services

Yavi Madurai; Executive Director -The Pan African Business Women’s Association

Panel Discussion:

Waleed El Zomor kicked off the conversation with an appreciation of the role of the AfCFTA in boosting trade within the continent. The gap between value addition and production and trade of raw materials was pointed out as a barrier to trade. Mr. El Zomor pointed out that the continent was tasked to start the real work by engaging the rest of the continent and the world through the value addition of raw materials. He then encouraged nations to boost their competitiveness and improve logistics and infrastructure. The value of the integrated value chain through industrialization was also encouraged. His vision encouraged the expansion of trade outside regional blocks to grow the preferential base beyond the 12% of non-liberalized trade. He encouraged the three biggest economies of Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa to come together and form a formidable mass that can face other regional blocks. The competitiveness of such a mass block would benefit other African markets as well. The multiplier effect of infrastructure was highlighted, with its role in access being amplified. He concluded by pointing out that the main obstacle to industrialization was the reluctance to add value to raw materials.

Hermogene Nsengimana began his contribution by stating that each nation, region, or trading block will go out of its way to get the most benefit out of any trade agreement, despite the AfCFTA. Other considerations affecting implementation will include the application and harmonization of standards such as that applied in the 1:1:1 principle. This allows one testing standard across borders, thus saving time and money. According to Nsengimana, conformity acceptance needs to be done at a continental level.

Hermogene Nsengimana

Waleed El-Zomor

Yavi Madurai

Trusted standards need to be achieved at all levels to allow seamless movement across borders without the need for retesting. He emphasized the need to set quality standards that should be embedded in the standardization during value addition. Certification should then be classified according to gold, silver, and bronze to guide consumers across the board. Ms. Gaitha reiterated the importance of standardization as a way of getting access and relevance in the global market.

Waleed El Zomor then unpacked the importance of medical tourism within the context of the AfCFTA agreement. He spoke of Africans spending about 6 billion dollars on healthcare outside the continent. Although he acknowledged that the continent could handle about 50% of these cases, he pointed out the challenge of the lack of protection of services from international partners within the continent.

“The health/service sector has a huge advantage. The first thing is because the sector is very well regulated but not really protected… A small amount of investment can also make a lot of difference,”

Waleed El Zomor

He encouraged partnerships where local medical personnel can learn from international partners. At the same time, the specialization of the medical workforce locally was also encouraged. Examples include, Kenya is famous for organ transplants while Egypt was well versed in cardiology. He encouraged these specialized countries to cooperate so that the treatment could be maintained within the continent at lower costs. Governments were encouraged to introduce a medical visa to promote medical tourism and establish centers of excellence in various areas. His final suggestion was the utilization of African nationals who had specialized in various medical fields across the world. Their contribution to the medical profession back home would enhance medical tourism.

The strengthening of regional blocks was the key to the implementation of the AfCFTA. These blocks were encouraged to focus on the creation of jobs, industrialization, and strengthening communication within the 8 regional communities. These would then be used as building blocks for a strong continental unit. This was Hermogene’s suggestion to the blocks as he challenged the continent to change its production patterns.

Yavi Madhurai joined the conversation by shedding more light on the role of technology. She explained how digital transformation can make a difference on the ground by changing the lives of billions of people in Africa. The start was the use of digital platforms to communicate and engage people with ease and lower costs. According to Yavi, technology has transformed the world of work and fast-tracked communication. Technology is expected to be the next accelerator of trade and services through the use of e-commerce platforms despite the challenges.

“When we produce what we don’t consume, that’s the main issue… We shouldn’t trade because there is COVID. We should trade because we should trade as the continent,”

Hermogene Emangene.

Yavi Madurai.

She called for a better process of communication and safeguard mechanism that will optimize the digital platforms and ensure that the digital advantage is indeed utilized. Addressing the digital divide to include those without access would also be an issue to address going forward. Yavi added the importance of formalization from a financing background. However, the use of technology to create structures was one of the things that needed to be embraced. Digital data capturing that conforms to the formal data structure would lead to better tracking systems.

Anne highlighted the need to embrace cash flow funding as opposed to collateral funding which is less feasible in the informal sector, in support of Yavi’s suggestion. Waheed encouraged the easing of regulations and the development of simpler regulations. Hermogene then clarified the assumption that he wanted the RECs dismantled. He instead encouraged their use as building blocks that would make it possible to build a bigger framework. His main issue was the overlapping of the different blocks which make operations difficult because of different regulations. Waheed then encouraged the enhancement of access to information so that it could be possible for traders to make informed decisions. Larger joint ventures were also encouraged.

Hermogene’s final take was that mobilization was the key to changing the mindset of the African consumer and trader. Yavi highlighted how difficult the implementation of the AfCFTA would be in the face of xenophobia. She concluded her final remarks by calling for a psychological drive of unity to help Africans change their mindset in a way that would affect their trading practices. The formation of a brand Africa agenda was the biggest game changer in Yavi’s opinion. Anne Gaitha concluded the session by reiterating the need to build trust by ensuring the standards of African brands are up to par.

“We are going to have to diversify before we can scale. We need to accept and understand that Africa’s trust deficit means that our e-commerce platforms will have an explosive start…However, it could just as easily fizzle out,”

Presentation: Wealth Creation in Africa Through Sustainable Trade Speaker: Anne

Wambui Gaitha, CEO - Regal Africa Group

Anne wambui Gaitha C.E.O

Regal Africa Group Speaker

Ms. Gaitha began by introducing the AfCFTA as the foundation of a borderless Africa and the development of restriction-free movement within the continent. She continued by illustrating that sustainable wealth creation was through trade, and highlighted the opportunities available for the trader beyond the local market. She encouraged regional continental and then global trade. The creation of African Brands was the key to forming structures to showcase brands that were trusted and would be easily consumed. The uptake of technology was encouraged as a way to do due diligence and enhance trade within the continent. Opportunities exist in food, beverage, fashion and beauty, flowers, and business services. Inclusive African transformation is dependent on economic transformation.

The shift of leadership to more women and youth was key in connecting to the grassroots and making changes that would fuel transformation. Anne then encouraged awareness of the diversity within the continent and the building of support within these consumable areas.

“If you are going to have an economic transformation on the continent then we need to be aware of our diversity. We need to know what each African country can produce whether its goods or services and we need to be able to consume what we produce,”

Anne Gaitha

Supporting the business community will be key to creating employment. Wealth creation will then major on three factors. The first is to ensure good succession planning. The second is to have more community projects beyond the aid mentality. Community projects will have to have a commercial agenda with good management and resource sustainability. The third factor is better policies supporting the marginalized groups of society such as women and youth.

The improvement of infrastructure will also boost trade and fuel sustainable wealth creation. The government and the public-private partnerships are driving this agenda to fill this gap. Digital infrastructure will enhance digital trade and widen the market to traders and populations. Lastly, social infrastructure building through education will eliminate some setbacks through the dissemination of information. When combined with housing, water, and electricity to make it easier to exploit natural resources, then it will be possible to build sustainable structures to support trade. Anne also encouraged the growth of agriculture, the blue economy, and renewable energy through the engagement of the youth.

Formal entrepreneurship will create access to markets, affordable finance, and for capacity building. Creating generational wealth through entrepreneurship was the game changer transitioning the continent from aid to trade. Anne concluded by highlighting the availability of the Trade in Africa Program at the Center for International Trade. The service offers a platform where information is available and support is given. She also addressed John Bosco Kalisa’s concern about trade causing inequality. Anne equated the issue of scale as the barrier to growth and increased market share. She encouraged the formalization of businesses to create generational wealth that will attract investors, and bigger markets, and eventually close off the world gap of inequality. Collective prosperity is the way to build partnerships and scale businesses across borders.

Regina Moore’s question on AfCFTA partnering with monetary agencies on the generation of a common currency was also addressed. Anne Gaitha explained that the concept of an African currency was years to come. However, various countries were still trading despite currency differences.

Watch Anne’s Keynote Speech on RegalAfrica TV here https://youtu.be/WJ1t7L79aDQ

The Digital Economy is the Great Equalizer for Trade in Africa

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

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Regal Africa Consulting Group is a boutique Investment Advisory and Management Strategy firm, that offers Transaction advisory and Strategic advisory services in East Africa.

BigFarm Foods is an African brand from Lagos Nigeria which produces, packages, and sells quality ready-to-cook foods. The founder Judith Idialu created this brand after she was able to help an ailing friend with a Tigernut food product. She then expanded her production to include dates and other food products. Judith has faced challenges in expanding her sales to the continent. Digital trade has faced the biggest barrier because of poor connectivity and the high costs of data.

Judith has however managed to be nominated for several awards that have recognized her efforts in value addition and improvement in health care. Judith concluded by addressing a query on logistics by explaining how she engaged a logistics partner who made it seamless for her to offer her goods around the continent.

Linda Fernando also highlighted her brand, Criattus Mozambique which addresses challenges that are common across Portuguese-speaking countries. Her business seeks to understand the business environment in Africa while putting into consideration the language barrier that exists. She is keen to reach out to the Portuguese-speaking countries which feel left out by the French and English-speaking countries. The platform allows the inclusion of these people who do not use English as their first language.

“English is not my first language so most of the time I have to struggle to make myself understood. I wish I could speak in Portuguese. I wish these platforms could also have Portuguese as an option to make myself understood because language is a barrier which when we overcome, we market ourselves in a way that is empowering,” Linda Fernando.

They often face barriers in trade and communication. Criattus seeks to use the recognition of the Portuguese-speaking group in the AU as an advantage to get access to continental and international trade.

Watch the 1st African Brand Highlight session here https://youtu.be/XuleuvQ1Qic

“One of the major challenges I’ve seen for the AfCFTA secretariat is the high cost of digital infrastructure. In Africa there is a high cost of data so most youth and women are finding it ery hard to link business activities,”

Judith Idialu

Panel Discussion 2: Africa Regional Economic Communities best practices

and opportunities for SMEs

Moderator: Melissa Harvey; Brand Portfolio Director- The Village Entrepreneurship

Panelists:

John Bosco Kalisa; CEO- East Africa Business Council

Teddy Yagambaram Soobramanien; CEO- Comesa Business Council

Amin Akadiri Bakin; CEO- Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry

Panel Discussion:

John Bosco began the discussion with a call to embrace the role of the private sector to steer the regional integration agenda. He then spoke of the background of the East Africa Business Council in people-centered integration and market-led integration. He tied this agenda to private-sector engagement.

John

He demonstrated how the EAC Regional Economic Community (REC) was one of the highest performing. It was able to weather the COVID season by ensuring the continuity of trade of essential goods through close ties between nations. The region was also supported by the privatization and digitalization of productive infrastructure such as the ports. Diversified agriculture is also helping the regions. Mr. Kalisa explained how the EAC has applied the above factors to the region in conjunction with the private sector.

Mr. Soobramanien brought up the aspect of producing what we need to consume. He stated that this was a starting point that would then progress to the ease of need to move these products. Exorbitant customs barriers and access to trade finance were the areas that COMESA Business Council(CBC) was seeking to address. He also pointed out the benefit of branding, distribution channels, and trade governance systems to determine security and predictability. He was keen for Africans to embrace new technologies and digital transformations so that Africa would become a leader instead of a follower within the global trade space.

“We believe that through business and investments, we can create prosperity for East Africa and to the continent. Again we are extending this vision of the private sector driven growth to the continent,”

Bosco Kalisa

Melissa Harvey

John Bosco Kalisa

Teddy Yagambaram Soobramanien

Amin Akadiri Bakin

Aminou Akadiri explained how his organization represents the interests of the private sector within COMESA and ECOWAS. The changes were aimed at creating an enabling business environment where traders could take up every opportunity available to them. The organization also provides relevant policies that will usher the region into productivity. They also promote partnerships through the harmonization of private sector activities and building capacity. They are also the region’s link or representation within the AfCFTA and with the other regional blocks.

The query on how CBC helps its members to access global markets was addressed by Mr. Soobramanien. He explained CBC’s role in engaging partners who will apply digital financial inclusion to lower the cost of financing. This product will also increase access to SMEs in the regions especially those with poor financial training. Another program also chose training sessions to strengthen local sourcing and compliance.

“CBC is addressing market information gaps. CBC offers tailor-made training to our SMEs within the region, and we also provide market information within the region,”

Teddy Yagambaram Soobramanien

This included programs that touch 800 SMEs that are now being engaged to build capacity. There are also other specialized and customized training to build capacity in the COMESA regions. These will act as pilot projects in 8 countries that will be replicated around the continent depending on their outcome.

Best practices to increase opportunities in regional trade that were suggested by Mr. Aminou included the encouragement of free movement. West Africa has endeavored to ease movement and lessen policies that make it difficult to move goods, services, or persons within West Africa. Protocol on community enterprises was another best practice that allowed working between all ECOWAS members. For example, a company can operate in Benin, Togo, and Nigeria in the same way. This model has seen Egyptian Airlines forming Asky Airlines to serve the entire region. The Sealink maritime project has a similar model. South Africa is also on board, while Morocco is an observer in the model.

“Let us assume that we identify 5 key projects in Africa. We say that we want to have technical partners or investors from South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt come together to work on this product. I believe such a product can easily move around Africa,”

Amin

Akadiri Bakin

The formation of a company with such ties around the continent was the best practice that Mr. Bakin suggested. This was the futuristic approach that all three panelists were working towards. Mr. Kilaka informed the panel that the EABC has implemented an SME business forum/platform called my e-Soko where cross-border traders share information. This has been used to promote instruments such as the Simplified Trading Regime. Any product less than 2000 USD can be traded without applying custom processes. This has enabled ease of trading along the border. Talks are underway to increase the limit to 5000 USD. Trade information desks along the borders have also been established to enlighten traders, especially women on the processes to apply.

Such practices are helping in data harvesting so that small traders are captured within the national trade bracket. Mastercard Foundation and Equity bank are also coming on board to develop patient/ venture capital.

Access to regional markets is a good strategy because competition is ruthless in a global market. Mr. Soobramanien was of this opinion as he advised business owners to use the regional markets as training grounds that would acclimatize the traders to business practices and competition. Mr. Aminou shared similar views as he pointed out that the local traders could not handle the scale required internationally. He suggested the amalgamation of services and goods within sectors to build capacity within the region. These groups would help in improving practices such as branding and standardization. He concluded by stating that the role of the private sector should be emphasized. Mr. Kilaka agreed with the training aspect as he referred to RECs as training platforms and capacity-building tools that would prepare the traders for global platforms. He argued that some international standards would not serve local markets, as he called for regional standards. He concluded by calling for RECs to be strengthened within the AfCFTA.

Watch the 2nd panel on RegalAfrica TV here https://youtu.be/dMpew1iVCFQ

Panel Discussion 3: Global Trade opportunities for African businesses

Moderator: Wangeci Gitata-Kiriga; Founder -Kijani Group

Panelists:

Ngozi Oyewole; Managing Director/CEO -Noxie Limited

Jaswinder (Jas) Bedi; Chairman -Kenya Export Promotion & Branding Agency.

Jas Bedi

Wangeci GitataKiriga

Ngozi Oyewole

Panel Discussion:

The session began with a warm welcome from Wangeci who introduced the panelists. Ngozi Oyewole, a manufacturing and export trader, advised listeners to be courageous and upfront while seeking business opportunities. On the opportunities in the commonwealth, Ngozi was positive about the research that the body carries out. She spoke about the benefits of the Commonwealth Connect and the Commonwealth Secretariat and working group which helps many through global and regional integration.the commonwealth's best practices were also appealing to the English-speaking countries as they gave traders a platform to take off. She gave an example of the women and youth empowerment program under Equity Bank in Kenya, as one of the Commonwealth programs to boost trade. She summarized the commonwealth advantage as 19% lower trading costs among the commonwealth nation-states.

Mr. Bedi joined the conversation by expanding his portfolio beyond the branding agency. He explained his role in cotton farming from field to fashion as he is involved in the entire production and supply chain. He noted that cotton is the number one export crop overtaking coffee and tea. He spoke about reorganizing supply chains to expand the cotton market because of the great demand and low supply. Concentration is on Europe because of the lower costs of trading. He blamed the low export rates in Kenya for the lack of value addition in cocoa, tea, coffee, and other products. He encouraged a shift to value addition to create jobs in manufacturing and generate higher-value income.

Intellectual property was also discussed as the Kenyan 'kiondo' and ‘kikoi' were brought into the conversation by Mr. Bedi. He spoke of the unique value proposition by encouraging brand visibility and awareness. He encouraged the use of conscious brand awareness and high-level advocacy. These moves have become the backbone of marketing as consumer needs are shifting to responsible consumerism and sustainability.

Jaswinder (Jas) Bedi

Ngozi advised traders to have a well-researched business plan based on the target market likely to realize the greatest value. She encouraged the use of well-harvested data that would make it possible to develop sound strategies to grow and prosper regional and global businesses. Mr. Bedi emphasized brand, buy and build, with an emphasis on pushing the brand beyond just selling the product. He called for extensive branding and identification to the extent that a certain product was identified with a certain region, culture, or country. He spoke of using solar and wind energy as green energy that will be gentler for the environment. He encouraged Africans to improve their storytelling skills by using primary pointers to highlight the advantages of green energy and sustainable organic produce. This marketing strategy was more effective beyond pricing and Bedi advocated for it as a way to gain conscious brand loyalty.

“Yesterday’s consumer wanted good prices. Tomorrow’s consumer wants value. It’s a bit different between offering price and value,”

Ngozi’s parting shot called for all aspiring business people to look beyond their fear and be aggressive in all they were seeking. She encouraged people to use their voices to tell a story that would introduce them to new opportunities, markets, and partners. She especially encouraged women to look beyond their fear and take that step towards prosperity and leadership.

Ngozi Oyewole

Mr. Bedi concluded by saying that Africans have more in common than what separates them. He told a story that encouraged Africans to take advantage of any compliment to advance the continent’s agenda. He called for the continent to become the leading trading block in the world by taking advantage of our youth and technology. Wangeci then concluded with the reminder that as a continent, we can go far together. Anne Gaitha then closed the session with a call to embrace local brands such as Wangeci’s Revolutionary coffee.

Watch this inspiring panel on RegalAfrica TV here

https://youtu.be/1MIuOLo-iJk www.africatradeconference.com

“Your voice is your superpower. Defy your doubts. Defy all odds. Go for it,”

Panel Discussion 4: How African businesses can participate in Global Value chains sustainably

Moderator: Musa Mpofu; Project Officer – Domestic Fair Trade (Kenya and South Africa) World Fair Trade Organization, Africa & Middle East

Panelists:

Patience Chindong; Chief Executive Officer -EuroAfrica Link

Oliver Fortune Chikodzore; CEO- African Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre

Anna Jankowska; Programme Officer in Trade Information-International Trade Centre

Panel Discussion:

The discussion began with Anne introducing the moderator Musa. Musa then welcomed the panelists. Patience introduced herself as a Cameroonian based in the Netherlands. She is passionate about food law. She helps European companies who want access to African markets and vice versa. She provides a service to enlighten the traders and farmers by making them independent. Her five-year-old organization has up-to-date information and experience from many case studies. The training program is available at scheduled times of the year. Anna described herself as a person who was passionate about providing information and opportunities to SMEs in the region. Olive is a business strategist with a focus on entrepreneurs. He is passionate about engaging the youth and women as the grassroots of the community, to bring them into entrepreneurship. His focus is on overcoming challenges such as investment facilitation, creating awareness, market access, and mentorship.

Musa inquired about the global preparedness of African businesses for the global markets. Anne acknowledged that although there were some prepared SMEs, there was a gap across the board with some experiencing information gaps. Patience also pointed out that even those who were earlier prepared, have been overtaken by COVID-related regulations. She spoke of the need to have a partner to engage with information and branding. Oliver gave examples of impediments to capacity building. They included a lack of equipment, technical support, logistics, value addition, and infrastructure. Training solved such problems when it was tailored and language friendly. He also advised people to develop an awareness of profit margins and future projections of what they want from the business.

Patience Chindong Oliver Chikodzore Anna Jankowska

Musa Mpofu

Oliver Fortune

Patience encouraged Africans to be aware of the six core elements necessary to bring products to Europe. The availability of a paper trail that would convince consumers of the source and the movement through the supply chain was essential. Most African products lack this kind of documentation to ensure the authenticity of branding claims. Patience additionally spoke of value addition and bringing awareness of what is in the continent. She advised interested participants to take advantage of their training program where all the necessary information was available. She also spoke of the added advantage of her organization representing the trader and introducing them to markets.

Anna spoke of the potential in Intra Africa trade across many sectors. Her organization gave research findings that showed that this area of trade was severely underutilized. Africa was underrepresented in global trade especially intra-Africa opportunities which only represented 14% of the 2% of exports. Anna explained how an Export Potential Map has shown that over 5000 products have potential in many sectors across Africa.

“When we look at Intra Africa trade, we estimate that there is room for an additional 22 billion in exports by 2026,”

Anna Jankowska

They include machinery, beauty products, chemicals, and motor vehicle parts among others. A study called Made by Africa, Creating value Through Integration seeks to create high-quality value chains from inputs. She explained that there are many promising value chains to produce higher value chains and the visibility to access such opportunities out there. She encouraged the use of ICT tools that can help get access to regulatory information and research on various trading practices in different regions.

Oliver spoke of resilience in the context of business community planning. This was to work in conjunction with certifications and value chains. Digitalization was part of this process that would help quicken processes and cut out corruption. Oliver called for collaboration with policymakers and law enforcement organs to help the global value chains favor the average business owner. His program tailors training to the areas that are relevant to specific traders. They base the training on the research of the specific business and community it will be located in.

Patience advised traders to structure their businesses before beginning the trade. An example was to understand each region’s food safety standards and quality with affordable pricing. Investing in oneself through learning and capacity building was also advised. Understanding the challenges was key in getting partners who would complement the business practices and make it easier and more profitable.

“It’s very important that we understand that there is business beyond that transaction,”

Patience Chindong

Anne picked up this line of thought by advising people to make use of digital tools. She encouraged the use of platforms that were created specifically for SMEs as they bring information from many different sources. Examples are the Global Trade Help Desk, Export Potential Maps, and the African Trade Advisory from the AfCFTA. These would guide a trader on the viability of a business as well as the expenses that may occur throughout the production process. The options of trade through e-commerce can be accessed through platforms like the ICT e-com Connect Platform. The best advantage is the connection with thousands of other entrepreneurs while taking advantage of digital trade. Anne explained that the WTO creates policies between countries. It also has an informal working group that liaises with SMEs to bring their concerns on board.

Oliver spoke of Fair Trade Africa and SEDA in South Africa as the bodies that help with certification. He spoke of his organization being able to help through various organizations that help in linking up with ECO SET. Patience then explained how her company connects entrepreneurs to buyers through an introduction, negotiation, and legal representation. Anne concluded by encouraging entrepreneurs to dream big even as they seek information to support their ventures. Patience advised the listeners to get started and not wait to be great to begin. Oliver finalized this by encouraging entrepreneurs to leverage the advantage of digital platforms through information. Musa closed the session by calling for more interactions on social media. The delegates also got to interact with the speakers and partners in the lobby during a short break.

Watch this panel on RegalAfrica TV here

https://youtu.be/T_bgVr1NktE

“There are so many organizations and a lot of information out there, especially online. So if you are able to invest in yourself, you will really find your way through international trade,”

Commodity trade has been the focus in Africa but Value Addition will be KEY in t he success of business through AfCFTA

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Eva’s Events Management is the dedicated corporate events planning and management department at Eva’s Events. Our edge at Eva’s Events management is the execution of our clients corporate events vision and our exceptional customer care and attention to detail. We say IMAGE is Everything and Sharing a memorable event experience with others is LIFE.

Eva’s Events Management is a partner to our clients and we plan, organize and manage corporate events from beginning to end, thus relieving our clients from all the stress in planning an event. You can focus on building your organization and we support you to create a seamless and memorable event. We understand that cost efficiency is important to you, we shall leverage on our supplier networks and negotiate the best rates for you.

As Africa grows to become a business events and tourism destination, we look forward to being part of this growing industry supported by local and global organizations. We work with our clients marketing and communication teams to ensure execution of the organization’s vision and ensure a memorable event.

Tel: +254 715258324

Tel: +254 722735710

Email : evasevents254@gmail.com

Have your event stand out from the crowd . . .

The African Online Vocalists is an online platform that was founded by Hellen Akoth Omolo also known as Hellen Mtawale. The movement was formed during the pandemic with the support of Google Meet and Zoom. The training evolved from singing training to an award movement and cultural expression of individual music. Her teaching staff has also gone international with talent like communication specialist Regina Re and Solly Mahlangu coming on board. She now networks with dancers, artists, and drama performers to provide physical platforms for them to perform. Her students range from three years old and above and she offers competitive prices. Her movement has given plenty of people a platform to present their creativity and get their names out there.

“All I can say is that there are opportunities out there for musicians. What you need to know is how to connect with us.Once you identify these skills it opens and exposes you to the world,”

Hellen Mtawale.

Vishnu Charran is from an island in the Caribbean and he is an educator. He spoke of addressing climate change solutions that encourage automation and less reliance on rainfall and nonrenewable energy.

“We have very brilliant and innovative people in our country. Rohn is one of them. I’m happy to be here to talk about what we do and what we can do for the continent of Africa and the Caribbean Islands,”

Vishnu Charran

Rohn Yearwood further described the company as one that seeks to find a more innovative way to practice agriculture. Oxanic Grow is an agriculture company dependent on innovation. The company aims to bring farming indoors so that the weeds are controlled, pests, thieves, and other outdoor factors are controlled. The model operates on hydroponics. It requires high capital costs and high skills. Conditions within the system must be controlled perfectly as imbalance spreads negative outcomes very fast. It is however advantageous as it does not depend on soil or climate conditions. Disease and pest control is much easier and water use is more controlled. Plants absorb nutrients from water solutions without interaction with the soil. It is also known as Controlled Environment Agriculture(CEA).

“The idea behind our company is to create a more innovative way of doing agriculture, especially with people who have challenges with the environment. We wanted to create a technology that can help to revolutionize the agriculture sector in that way,” Rohn Yearwood.

The hybrid system maximizes the use of space and increases productivity. Oxygen and nutrient uptake are optimized in this system. It combines the Nutrient Film Technique and Deep Water Culture. The system grows vegetative plants like lettuce and reproductive plants like botanical fruits. An example is a strawberry. The limited light eliminates algae to avoid competition as weeds would do. Most plants take 14-28 days from plant to harvest, hence a high turnover rate. Additionally, a controller reduces the managerial role in the greenhouse or indoor farm.

Watch these Global brands on RegalAfrica TV here https://youtu.be/qNhW7o3n1Ak

Panel Session 5: Global Trade as a catalyst to the Development of Africa

Moderator: Musa Mpofu; Project Officer – Domestic Fair Trade (Kenya and South Africa) World Fair Trade Organization, Africa & Middle East

Panelists:

Rachel Mwakazi Skjaerpe; Rural Development consultant- D-Dialog Norway

Dr. Ben Shepherd; Developing Trade Consultants

John Karegwa; Chief Executive Officer- Invest in Africa Summit

Hanna Norberg; Founder and Principal- TradeEconomista

Rachel Mwakazi Ben Shephard

John Karegwa

Hanna Norberg

Musa Mpofu

The moderator began the session by allowing the panelists to introduce themselves. The team of multi-skilled individuals then explained their professional capacity and scope of work in the continent. Ben began the conversation by stating that no one country was constantly ready to tackle the global market. He called for frequent research and repositioning to align the opportunities with preparedness. He also lauded the AfCFTA for promoting regional trade which is the lowest in Africa, when compared to other continents and regional markets. Hanna shared the strategic benefit of the AfCFTA as it turned many African countries towards each other.

Trade agreements reallocate resources to areas where the most beneficial areas grow where others shrink. Ben stated this to explain the challenges that were faced in the implementation of tariffs and trade agreements. The large trade costs and facilitations were thought to be made efficient with trade agreements.

Rachel said that the grassroots would not benefit from the trade agreements immediately but they would benefit in the future. She said that most grassroots organizations were working on digital transformation and coming together to scale up production. The role of capacitation was key in making cottage industries able to compete regionally and globally. Hanna described a trade agreement as a gym membership that was useless until the work was put in. Setting up the AfCFTA was the easiest part and now the other stages such as infrastructure and digital connectivity would then need to grow accordingly. Hanna called for the growth of quality infrastructure to make the whole trade chain come together.

John spoke of the challenges facing the implementation of the AfCFTA. The main role he posed to the continent was to take up production to create value addition. He also called for the continent to trade more with each other to grow capacity. He encouraged the continent to create niches to make the continent visible and reputable for certain produce. His main concern with the AfCFTA was the ability of entrepreneurs to maintain quality standards and fulfill trade agreement parameters. He blames this for the low uptake of opportunities on a global level.

“Having a trade agreement is like having a gym membership. It’s nice to have, but just having it lying in your wallet is not going to make you fit,”

Hanna Norberg

“Having a trade agreement is great and I think it sets in place a really useful and important structure for moving forward. But I guess I’d like to rebalance a little and say that regional cooperation and international cooperation in particular in areas like critical infrastructure is also a really big part of the agenda in terms of creating regional and global hubs in Africa,”

Dr. Ben Shepherd.

His final complaint was that connectivity and travel within the continent were more expensive than traveling between two different continents. Musa then pondered on the woes of failing within the region as the main impediment to scaling globally. ben agreed with these sentiments by seeing the challenges in terms of scale. He spoke of the international resources that could help in the context of the Asian agreements. The main challenge is how to get all these ecosystems to work for each other.

Musa felt that small businesses needed to be put online or on the government’s radar so that they could access greater markets. It would then be possible to bring together more like-minded traders who would then have a more relevant position in the trade sector. John acknowledged that Africa needs support to run their businesses and process orders. Borrowing from the bank takes too long and a potential order may be lost in the process. The lack of capital financing makes many businesses struggle to operate. Despite this, John called for diversification in food production, healthcare, fintech, renewable energy, connectivity, and affordable housing. John described that most investors want to invest in a scale-up instead of a startup. The main barrier to accessing funding from the many available investors is the lack of the ability to demonstrate the ability to scale up.

Most businesses were not investors ready and they could not make a simple business plan or offtake agreement. Rachel spoke of the complementary role that could be played by the NGOs which could train business people on business practices. She agreed with John’s sentiments on the lack of preparedness due to the lack of formalities. Many people were locked out and Rachel called for the NGOs to facilitate trade through training.

The responsibility was also passed to grassroots organizations like the Chamber of Commerce. She called for horizontal engagements. Rachel spoke of open channels of communication such as those organized by ABSA and the Chamber of Commerce in Kenya. Such a forum could prepare these traders for regional and international trade. John spoke of the importance of being investor ready and emphasized structuring being a key area in need of training. Hanna’s final remarks were for people to be bold about getting information and engaging in business. She encouraged learning and networking as a way to expand horizons beyond Africa.

“African contribution to international trade is only about 1%. So we need to scale up,” John Karegwa.

“I got a lot of innovative ideas but there was nobody funding for us to do the capacity building for these people to be able to strategize to attract funding. We have to do it out of goodwill,”

Rachel Mwakazi

Rachel then encouraged the transition from raw material to value addition so that these ready products would produce more revenue streams. She also called for NGOs to shift the mentality from fish to fish farming. This was the best way to boost trade and end dependency on aid. She called for Africa to decide what it was about and to brand beyond the poverty-stricken images given in donor narratives. Ben called for the traders to organize and come together to create structures that work. He also promoted digital marketplaces to boost connectivity and make it possible to connect in the global space. John’s parting shot to business people was to encourage them to cross the border as they would find many business opportunities that could change their s cope of thinking.

Watch the panel that closed out day 1 of the conference here on RegalAfrica TV https://youtu.be/hi8o2zdn_1E

”TRADE not AID is the answer for Africa’s prosperity”

Keynote Speech: How Digital Trade

is a catalyst to enable more formal cross border trade in Africa

Presentation: “Keynote Speech”

Pamela Mar Managing Director, Digital Standards Initiative(DSI) International Chamber of Commerce

After a warm welcome and introduction from Anne Gaitha, Pamela introduced the DSI as the body which seeks to transition paper based documentation to a digitized version. The DSI is currently working with the private sector to make this possible. Digital options seek to simplify the copying process by transforming it into data. The data option also seeks to make it easier to secure data and make sure the transition from paper records to electronic records is much more secure and with fewer problems. The body will also connect resources to needs on the ground so that the electronic forms can be trusted as much as the paper copy. The move is expected to significantly lower the costs of operation.

Pamela Mar

The future of supply chains is digital. So far, 70 countries have ratified digital laws and many others are in the process of transitioning such moves. Many countries have started using digital forms of records in trade. An industry survey shows that digital records were moving more towards digital reliance than paper. The move has overtaken social records and financial records with many organizations having a digital footprint that even traces the environmental footprint. International business operations are now relying on digital records to be able to operate efficiently. She advises African businesses to push data protection, localization, and interoperability so that it can be a key agenda in the AfCFTA.

Pamela Mar.

“If you are a smaller country, then you need to get your trade-to-GDP ratio up. And the only way to do that is to reduce trade costs… Today digitalization is one way to do that,”

“The key is A, you have to be digital but B, you have to be digital in a way that is harmonized and interoperable with how other supply chains and how other companies are operating,”

The business community can then advocate for support in digitalization to make it possible to operate regionally and globally. Digitized supply chains have the added advantage of being in real-time. This makes participation easier because it is transparent and easier to grow. More jobs are then created as the business ecosystem shifts. Pamela concluded the presentation by calling for more participation with people from all regions on DSIs and ICC's social media platforms. She encouraged governments to include technical expertise from all sectors. Governments can then create an enabling environment through tax incentives and digital education from a basic level.

Anne Gaitha agreed with these sentiments, as she stated that the next generation will be digital natives. Pamela then encouraged the African region to compete and share their digital investment wealth through some collective innovation.

Watch this amazing Keynote from Pamela here https://youtu.be/mx1RlWHX7uY

Panel Discussion 6: Corporates' role in promoting digital trade in Africa/ The role of digital trade in implementing the AfCFTA

Moderator: Anne Gaitha, CEO -

Panelists:

Adetutu Talabi; Head Of Partnerships- Sidebrief Africa

Sammy Thuita; E-commerce Regional Customer Manager (SSA) -DHL

Michelle Chivunga; Founder/CEO /Investor- Global Policy House

Panel Discussion:

Anne began the session by introducing the panelists from diverse backgrounds. They included SME support through scaling, cross-border trade support through international courier services, and regional support on the implementation of the technology blockchain. Sammy kicked off the conversation by describing the shift to e-commerce as a way to grow the country along with any given business. DHL in particular works to meet evolving needs of traders among regions by engaging the governments. They use an e-commerce program called Power Up your Potential.

Adetutu Talabi

Sammy Thuita Michelle Chivunga

Regal Africa Group

Anne Wambui Gaitha

It offers trade awareness by bringing all stakeholders on board and expanding their potential and making choices more available.

Michelle then explained the AfCFTA in context with the leverage that it could give businesses across the globe. She spoke of blockchain as an enabling factor that would make it easy to trade with each other and create more value. She spoke of digital platforms as a catalyst for growth. Michelle called for ownership of the data and code to monetize it around the globe. The Global Policy House is in talks with the AfCFTA to put such measures in place. She encouraged African countries to monetize and get a competitive advantage through talent in the blockchain, smart contracts, artificial intelligence, and the digital platform economy in general. She also called for end-to-end digitalization.

“For us, we want to make sure that we invest in talent. The talent is going to generate you the GDP that you’re looking for,”

Michelle Chivunga

Adetutu spoke of the benefit of professional services in creating employment in a continent that is rich with human resources. The AfCFTA can provide avenues for regional opportunities that will leverage technology to facilitate regional cooperation among professionals.

Digital platforms make it possible for professional services to easily move across borders. The protocol on sales and services will need to facilitate mutual agreements that will be friendly and seamless. Michelle spoke of the secretariat’s focus on women and youth. She encourages countries to create an enabling environment by providing information on regulations and the importance of collecting data. Access to information and skills was the key to owning and earning from the digital economy. Michelle was keen to encourage internally driven investment markets so that the ownership through the production of youth and women could be dominated within the continent. Regulators were advised to work with the industry players as they made policies and regulations.

Sammy spoke of creating awareness of e-commerce readiness among the masses. The ‘Think global, Act local’ tag was emphasized to participants so that they would have a seamless process when trading between different regions. Sammy added that DHL also facilitates paperless trade as a way to give back to the community alongside consumer education.

“If

Sammy Thuita

you are looking at trading or being present as far as the online space or digital trade is concerned then you have got to think about the entire scope. For us, it is ensuring that as far as compliance is concerned our SMEs or every other participant is very clear in terms of ensuring detail and accurate declarations as far as products are concerned,”

DHL also sought to achieve sustainability by being well aligned with the opportunities in digital trade. The concern of data collection in Africa was also discussed with the gap in information being faulted for limiting decision-making.

Adetutu expressed confidence in the accelerating effect of digital trade in Africa. She credited part of that growth to the pandemic and to the need to diversify into other fields. The ability to raise seeds for digital-dependent businesses had also managed to grow in several markets across the continent. Her concern was the small uptake the fintech sector had in many markets. She encouraged the sector to spread in more nations and beyond the stronger economies and more technologically advanced nations. Michelle then discouraged the creation of code without purpose. She encouraged the use of code that was focused on solving a specific problem. She encouraged control and ownership of the source and open code so that consumer protection and code protection could be possible while untapped value. She encouraged the AfCFTA and the nations to create structures to protect intellectual property.

Adetutu did not think that harmonizing the education curriculum would build up trade and services. The idea was not realistic according to her because of the different cultures and different colonial influences present in every region. She was more intentional about coordination through working with what we already had and moving forward.

countries decided to go ahead and then that was when they decided to go forward…So realistically we need to go forward…we can then build up to harmonization across the board”

Adetutu Talabi

On the high cost of shipping, Sammy rationalized it using the logistics and volume metric. He said that the charges are determined by industry standards and conformations to customer promises. DHL was also investing in the market to align its service to the value proposition. He compared their pricing to the premium they provided in exchange. Michelle commented on data colonialism in the context of its value as it was considered the new oil. Data can be monetized to generate more income streams. She believed that it was important to protect data and make it advantageous because data ownership was ambiguous. Access to the right data sets was more important in that it made any situation more advantageous and easier to have a competitive advantage. She encouraged contextualization at a national level.

Sammy’s parting shot was that online ordering had taken over trade so logistics traders were engaged in creating solutions to increase efficiency and lower costs. Michelle concluded by encouraging the governments to include the informal economy and for individuals to leverage the digital economy to generate more jobs and increase the GDP. Untapping the value in the digital economy and accessing the information across other continents was the key. Adetutu closed by encouraging the government to create the environment for the development of digital infrastructure

“I do believe that we should start from where we are. Take for example the AfCFTA, big countries like Nigeria and South Africa were hesitant to even join. Other

so that the innovators did not have to do all the manufacturing, building infrastructure, and providing education and growth.

Watch the 1st panel of day 2 here : https://youtu.be/WZn8oFsaEro

Panel Discussion 7: How African brands can take advantage of digital trade to increase market share

Moderator: Melissa Harvey; Brand Portfolio Director- The Village Entrepreneurship

Panelists:

Wangeci Gitata-Kiriga; Founder- Kijani Group

Joy Zenz; Founder African Women in Europe, CEO African Women in Trade, African Trade in Europe

Craig Chamberlain; Director -Made In Africa

Panel Discussion:

After Mellissa introduced and welcomed the panelists, Joy opened the session by advocating for digital trade by sharing the experience from her organization. Wangeci also sought to share her experience as a facilitator and Craig as a manufacturer and brand manager. Joy then shared her challenge with the women’s organization as she tried to transform the women’s mindset. According to Joy, women needed to know that they could transact trade digitally without dependence on help from anyone. Joy said that there were opportunities available, but there was an awareness gap. This is despite the fact that there were many free platforms with a lot of information like youtube. She encouraged the use of digital tools like online bookkeeping and training, as she wanted women to understand the full scope of trade.

Craig spoke about being trade ready through vetting to determine the quality of products and the range available. He continued to say that the majority of people were trade ready within their region. However, there was an information deficit when it came to cross-border trade. Business-to-business trade was also limited in the timeliness of meeting commitments. The

Wangeci GitataKiriga

Joy Zenz Craig Chamberlain

Melissa Harvey

OUR FOCUS IS PROMOTING TRADE AND INVESTMENTS IN AFRICA

Regal Africa Business Institute (RABI) is an institution based in Nairobi, Kenya with a focus on development through trade and investments by promoting business excellence on the Africa continent, with the understanding that business is the only sustainable way to eradicate poverty on the continent.

RABI is an institution that offers research , training, business education and consulting services to Businesses , Institutions and Goverments with a focus on the African Continent.

Regal Africa Group

4th Floor Top Plaza, Kindaruma Rd, Nairobi, Kenya

P.O. Box 40187, Nairobi 00100

Tel: +254 0714 009 065

www.regalafrica.co.ke

info@regalafrica.co.ke

e-commerce platforms may also overwhelm traders as they may not be confident to navigate these platforms. Made in Africa provided an option to talk to someone to ease the complexity.

Wangeci spoke of the advantage of using digital trade and technology to address various problems in agriculture. She spoke of the use of technology in awareness through the use of USSD codes that give information to leverage their practices. Technology has been used to set up call centers to permeate the masses and make them aware of solutions available in the market. Information sharing has also been used to cut out middlemen by sourcing for markets around the country. Examples of digital-based platforms are Uber, Jumia, Greenspoon, and Sendy are some models that were able to grow during COVID but are now working

“We have seen that being used in the agrispace, which was an area, especially with perishable goods was not natural, let me say that it was not the first place you would think of digital trade in fresh produce, especially in a local area,”

Wangeci Gitata-Kiriga

Joy spoke of recommending platforms through referrals from the African diaspora. Basic examples she spoke of were Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and Whatsapp where entrepreneurs could connect and showcase their products. These tools could be used as free platforms to meet, discuss and create groups to get feedback. Market research, design thinking, and modeling of the market were also conducted on all these social media platforms.

“All these tools, you can use them to analyze if it’s needed. And the people will always guide you,”

Joy Zenz

Canva is another platform she encouraged as it gave attractive visuals. The platform helped with attractive branding. However, these platforms were not protected because most lacked trademarks and intellectual property. She encouraged the formalization of these products so that catalogs could be used to provide information and some semblance of ownership. Melissa also encouraged the protection of IP.

Craig then explained his business model and process of engagement. It began with the vetting process by first getting their documentation. The documents are the first vetting process which is followed by a video or visit to a warehouse or the goods that are going to be supplied. The next step is a contract outlining the agreement entered into. Trust was the underlying fact on both sides. Risks were more adverse and the exact product matches were difficult to achieve.

“B2B is such a different market to B2C…B2B is different as there is a lot more money involved, as well as the quality of the product,”

Craig Chamberlain

Other disadvantages were the trust issues where it was difficult to be sure of getting a certain product and its quality. The payment methods were also more secure as structures had been put in place to direct income specifically. Craig finished by stating that it was difficult for people to understand how digital platforms worked. Made in Africa explained how they made trade visible. Melissa commented that the rigorous vetting provided a shield of psychological security and peace of mind to both the customer and the supplier.

Wangeci spoke of the cooperatives in their role as uniters of trade. She noted that some were using their digital platforms to share information and best practices. Unfortunately, she noted that these parameters were only notable among the larger and well-managed cooperatives. The smaller ones were left out of the market. User-friendliness was the highest barrier to getting into the digital space. Accessibility and price to these platforms was the other barrier that made selection limiting to most. Integration of policies also determines which platforms are selected so that trade is possible.

Joy emphasized the importance of understanding trade in the context of scaling up and staying relevant in the market. Grassroots engagement was also needed to provide feedback to the farmer on what the market needed. She encouraged quality products as these would ease problems beyond their control like logistics. She encouraged value addition through innovation and digital trade. Melissa pointed out that it was important to understand your place in the food chain. Craig then spoke of the fear and apprehension of digital trade, with COVID forcing the digital move but creating new trust issues. He encouraged people to ask for help if they found themselves stuck in a certain limitation. Fear was discouraged as he called for more collaborations so that people could grow together beyond their excitement.

Wangeci concluded by demonstrating how Africa was advancing technologically and increasing digital connectivity. She encouraged every trader to look beyond the local market and go global to add value to the continent and globe. Wangeci’s final call was for the diaspora to be good ambassadors and provide platforms to bring the taste of home to the globe. Melissa closed by calling for everyone to embrace technology and Anne Gaitha welcomed participants to engage the brands visible in the exhibition during the short break.

Watch the panel here

https://youtu.be/iu57Vv6b_DY

Investing in Agribusiness will transform communities and transform Africa

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Highlight

African Brands in Digital Trade

StockApp Africa is a company that was co-founded by Ken Gitonga. It is an app that helps SMEs across Africa to digitize their records through modules. Examples of useful modules are stock, stock inventory, sales manager, profits and expenses, cash flow, and employee attendance. The app is free to install and download and then after that it charges $5 per month. The app is a management tool that doubles up on data analytics and financial tracking. The data generated helps make it possible for traders to make a decision on fast moving products and most profitable products.

Ken Gitonga

The app seeks to narrow the supply chain gap by adding more options on the app. Ken spoke of protecting his brand by copywriting it. He is a strong believer that excellent execution is the best way to prevent stealing or counterfeiting of an idea. The service must be outstanding so that it can stand the test of counterfeiting and competition from similar products.

Tynka is a brand founded by Ivy Bina. Tynka helps business people find business partners and investors. Ivy illustrated the amazing results of partnerships in the society and in the formation of many influential businesses. Tynka has created an android app where users create a business or project. Investors or business partners then find a model that suits their needs. The pairing uses the same model of choosing a date on Tinder. Tynka facilitates communication, creates a marketing avenue, and provides protection by facilitating transactions between partners. Ivy believes that Tynka accelerates development by availing resources where needed.

“What partners are you looking for? Where are you growing currently? You can even invite your clients to be investors in your company. Are they going to be shareholders? That is a marketing avenue,”

Ivy Bina

Tynka uses machine learning technology to pair partners. Her brand also uses block chain to track ownership, investments and share transfer. Ivy uses safety checks like verification of transactors and platforms like Escrow which holds money in trust for both sides. She however said that security is a continuous work in progress that needs to be improved continuously.

Oracom Group is a web solutions company that was co-founded by Dorise Ambani. Oracom Group combines 14 companies that give various services. They include bulk messaging, web design, hosting and domain registration, training on digital marketing, video and photography among others. The business also allows the user to search for businesses in whichever category. They also rank digitally fit businesses and give access to a digital record of businesses. Oracom helps

“StockApp is a tool that helps SMEs to digitize their records...We are trying to close the whole supply chain gap,”

businesses set up and manage a business digitally then build through websites, marketing on platforms such as paid ads and social media marketing. The platform then helps each business they engage to become digitally fit so that the business can handle their activities digitally.

“We are helping businesses get online. We are helping businesses get digitally fit. We have mobile app developers, digital trainers and others,”

Dorese Ambani

Oracom has won several awards on their web solutions and training expertise. They can be found on oracomgroup.com and on their social media platforms. Dorese also encouraged documentation of concepts and application for trademarks as protection of business models.

Mubi Leather is a sustainable made in Kenya brand that produces leather bags and accessories. The founder Muna Elmi Abi works with local artisans to ensure environmentally friendly methods of sourcing raw materials and production. The workshops and tanneries try to ensure sustainable and transparent processes and working conditions. Mubi Leather also uses environmentally friendly packaging material. They also upcycle waste to create accessories through art and craft artisans. The products are intentional and designs are made to boost functionality.

PThe products have an online catalog that reaches the members through online platforms and social media platforms. Their website is www.mubileather.com.

Watch a host of African Brands here https://youtu.be/f9VebpVpbq4

Trade in Africa means Creating Jobs, Creating Wealth and Developing Africa

“Our designs are very intentional and very functional so that we cater for our customers needs,”

Muna Elbi

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Panel Discussion 8: How can we unlock the potential for women to trade sustainably

Moderator: Yavi Madurai; Executive Director- The Pan African Business Women’s Association

Panelists:

Phyllis Mwangi; CEO -Edge Consult Ltd

Susan Baka; Regional Trade Representative (Ontario)- Trade Facilitation Office (TFO) Canada

Caspar Pedo; Head of Region, East, and Central Africa -Fairtrade Africa

Panel Discussion :

Yavi opened the session by stating that women have the potential to scale development by changing the potential of business as they impact the society around them. Addressing women’s issues was key to making a change in the region. Her organization PABWA was keen on activating the potential of women and trade within the possibilities set out in the AfCFTA. The panelists then introduced themselves starting with Phyllis who is an entrepreneur and consultant. Susan is a trade facilitator and adviser based in Canada while Casper Pedo is an entrepreneur and development practitioner.

Yavi first asked the panel what they would want to change for women traders in Africa. Susan acknowledged that women in Africa were the backbone of the economy. She called for the removal of impediments in policies to accommodate women, especially in cross-border trade. Trading policies across the board needed to include gender sensitivity training across the board. Caspar would want to change the cultural limitations that push women out of leadership and decision-making. He also noted that this locked them out of monetization because they did not own land or assets in most cases. He encouraged a shift through active participation in the process. Phyllis spoke of the boundaries that women experience in cross-border trade, especially in small-scale trade. The harassment was also more in physical transactions because of the lack of digitization. Shipping would also help to eliminate harassment and discrimination issues.

Yavi Madurai Phyllis Mwangi Sara Baka Caspar Pedo

Casper described the concept of Fairtrade supporting women through their CSR and other engagements. The Fairtrade standards encourage organizations in their system to be more democratic and inclusive in that they create an advantage in the supply chain. He explained the determination of Fairtrade to appreciate women according to the value they provide in the chain of production. He explained that women are engaged in the process so that women could become more of the focus area in the trade, he noted that only about 25% of women were in leadership while almost 60% were involved in production.

Susan then shared how her two projects are impacting women in the continent. The first is Women in Trade for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth. It aims to increase the representation of women in leadership and increase gender equality. They train trade support institutions in the continent to promote gender-sensitive practices. Establishing commercial relationships will be one of the long-term benefits the women will receive.

The second project is called Making Trade work for Women in SubSahara Africa. It seeks to help women-led exporters with support in their services. Susan answered Caspar’s question on the presence of these organizations in the continent by stating that 14 countries were participants. She also encouraged collaborations that would enhance two-way trade and investments. Susan also mentioned that Canada wanted to strengthen trade between Canada and Africa so that the two could benefit from Africa’s expansive human resources and Africa could benefit as well. Yavi supported these sentiments as trade would end reliance on aid.

Phyllis spoke about overcoming the challenges of trade for women in Africa. Women make up 58% of self-employed people in Africa. The main challenge is that the women do not own most of these businesses and they often work at a lower rank. Another category is engaged in B2C types of businesses where the women engage the customer directly. The smallest bracket engages in the private sector. Women mentorship programs help overcome some of these challenges by encouraging record-keeping and audited accounts to access funding. Phyllis suggested the adoption of mobile banking so that financial transactions could be traced and documented. She was not convinced about the effects of organizations whose impact was not fully felt at the grassroots as their effects were only demonstrable on paper.

“One of the key things that we need to do is to get back to breaking the cultural, patriarchal barriers,”

Caspar Pedo

“There will be more women-led SMEs as members, clients, and leaders of trade support institutions. There will be more gender-responsive institutions providing appropriate services to women-led exporters,”

Susan Baka

Casper spoke of the countries that are embracing open borders and opening up opportunities in trade. He encouraged women to come in at this stage by promoting their ability to engage at this level. He suggested promotion from the level of the cooperative to assist women to take up more leadership and ownership position. He answered a question on the high cost of certification by saying that if the market was readily available, then the costs of certification would be offset. Yavi also spoke of promoting excellence as a way of attracting investors and partners to create avenues for scaling.

Phyllis suggested several reasons why companies would do better if they engaged more women. The first was that women's inclusion was a key indicator of alignment with the SDGs. Research showed that more involvement of women leads to reduced corruption practices. She also spoke of the improvement of society as a form of Corporate Social Responsibility. Many women-led businesses go back to the grassroots and engage in social impact businesses.

Casper concluded his contribution by encouraging everyone to engage women in recognition of the effort they invest and the potential they use. Susan encouraged women to come together in networking so that these networks could make lasting change. Phyllis wound up the session by encouraging Africans to own the AI that was going to change the continent. Yavi ended by emphasizing Susan’s sentiments that we need more trade and not aid.

Watch this panel of great women here

https://youtu.be/iuNnr9JrW9Q

“We need to look into the value. How much are we talking about? What is going into the women-owned businesses?”

Phyllis Mwangi.

”It has never been a better time to start TRADING in AFRICA and to create generational wealth”

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Presentation:

Facilitators:

Rose Ronoh; Senior Gender and Trade Expert- United Nations Economic Commission for Africa(UNECA)

Caroline Keitany; -Private Sector Engagement Expert

Rose and Caroline who were both part of UNECA introduced themselves and began sharing about the AfCFTA. The AfCFTA was described as a trade agreement that would offer trade advantages to member states. It was expected to reduce some tariffs and eliminate others so that trade was more affordable. Access was also higher, and development was accelerated through industrialization. The agreement will also develop regional value chains and create a coherent trade policy. Participants benefit from improved trade in goods and services through the improvement of the priority sectors of transportation, tourism, financial services, and communication business services. African heads of state also dedicated a protocol to women to counter the cultural injustices women face. The agreement was keen on involving both women and men in boosting entrepreneurship moving forward. Rose also mentioned the desire for informal businesses among people with low levels of education to be included. The benefits were to be felt across the board. The agreement also seeks to make entrepreneurship more attractive through formal structures and guidelines. UNECA has supported over 40 member states to draft their implementation strategies and the next step is to create awareness. Rose concluded the presentation with a list of challenges. They include a lack of knowledge of technology and opportunities, travel barriers through visa complications, and high costs of travel among others.

Rose addressed several questions raised by the delegates. On continental trade, she explained that the eight countries currently trading are in a pilot study to better understand the challenges in the implementation of the AfCFTA. Traders were encouraged to do market research on the regions they were interested in. This would be more profitable than waiting for the pilot studies to chart the way forward in all 52 countries in Africa. She spoke of the long-term plan to interconnect the transportation systems to allow better logistics in transporting goods. The application of a digital tool for cost analysis was also advised.

What are the right and effective gender trade policies, that will promote more women to participate in formal trade

Rose Ronoh

Caroline Keitany

Rose Ronoh

She encouraged the movement of services first and also trading first within one regional economic community. Another question on exporting goods was answered by encouraging traders to first procure an export license. She then advised the delegate to go to the info trade portal to determine which other specific licenses were needed for specific products. She mentioned that traders could engage institutions to protect their brands through patenting, trademarking, anti-counterfeit authorities, and copyrights. SME brands could also seek protection within the Intellectual Property Protocol that is currently under negotiation. Rose then asked the delegates to give their recommendations to UNECA

Joy Zenz, one of the delegates, encouraged facilitation for women to understand The Women and Youth Protocol and the general concept of global trade. Rose advised traders to work on quality assurance and branding. She then encouraged support from aggregators and called for organizations to play this role. Another delegate spoke of the high cost of logistics which Rose reiterated was a work in progress. Rose also answered a question on the inclusion of all women including rural-based women and women living with disabilities. She explained that these people were covered under the 30% reserved for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Efforts were also being made on the national and continental levels. Rose also promised to forward all these recommendations to UNECA. On access to finance, Rose advised traders to start small and develop a cash flow system and financial history. Formal business registration and developing a trackable financial history would make it possible to access financing for bigger projects.

“UNECA is a policy adviser institution. We note this and that is why we participate in these engagements. Not only do we bring it to the governments, but we also research to find out where the problem stems from,”

Rose Ronoh.

Rose then called for the developing partners to handhold entrepreneurs through the next stage of awareness and capacity building beyond training. The lack of disaggregated data was also seen as a barrier to policymaking as the challenges of men and women could not be captured accurately. A communications and visibility plan was also structured for women and the platforms they patronize, to decrease the knowledge gap. An upcoming workshop targeting women and MSMEs was set to enlighten more women on operations. Kenya, Ghana, Egypt, Rwanda, Tunisia, Cameroon, Mauritius, and Tanzania are the pilot countries that are involved in the trial run of the implementation of the AfCFTA. The countries volunteered to be a part of the pilot study also known as a Guided Trade Initiative. Products including ceramic tiles, dry foods, and batteries among others were part of the products being traded. On gender-sensitive budgeting, Rose called for a deeper inclusion of women's issues.

“What I would advise is that ITC trade map have a tool whereby you can be able to go and check your product and just see where the most cost-effective place in terms of transport, in terms of tariffs for you to export,”

Caroline wound up the discussion by summarizing the scope of feedback they would be able to give back. The compilation included recurring issues of logistics, facilitation aggregation, engagement with SMEs of different challenges and living standards, how we monitor and track progress, access to finance and the self-denying aspect, capacity building, and preparation by formalizing businesses and researching markets. Caroline also encouraged the domination of regional communities before venturing into continental markets. Communication plans at the national level were encouraged to be gender sensitive. She concluded by calling for the commitment of the member states to gender-sensitive budgeting. Anne then closed the session by ushering in some Women-owned African brands.

Watch this exciting video at Regal Africa TV https://youtu.be/CYxyJfQ5VUg

”Trade is a powerful engine for economic growth - Agenda 2063”

Ankole Luxury is a jewelry and home decor accessory brand that was founded by Veronica Gakio. The Ankole horn from Uganda is her primary raw material that goes through an extensive production process to make earrings, bangles, candle holders, coasters, and others. They are put together with waste brass and recycled padlocks. Ankole luxury also works with women groups from Tharaka Nithi who make bags. The bags are embellished with leather and other accessories to increase their value. Other engagements include training of an autistic groups to make and sell rosaries. Veronica is passionate about horn jewelry because of the unique creamy, white caramel colors they produce. Each piece is unique based on the source horn. Ankole works within communities to uplift those that it can reach. The products sell on Facebook, LinkedIn and on their website. Veronica finished by encouraging all female entrepreneurs not to limit themselves in business.

“It’s quite unique and is not something that everyone is wearing. I’ve always loved unique jewelry so before I started making jewelry I always preferred second hand jewelry because I knew I would not find it with anyone else,”

Veronica Gakio

The AfCFTA will ensure that we have trade data from Intra Africa trade that will enable policy reforms and improved business environments for all African Businesses, Lets TRADE in Africa

“Anne Gaitha, Founder and CEO Regal Africa Group”

Panel Session 9: How economic empowerment of women will transform African Nations Development

Moderator: Yavi Madurai; Executive Director -The Pan African Business Women’s Association

Panelists:

Gloria Atuheirwe; Director Gender, Inclusion and Women in Trade- TradeMark

East Africa

Madelein Mkunu; Founder and President- Leading Women of Africa Group

Modesta Nsowaa-Adu; International Trade Policy Consultant- CUTS International Pauline Okubasu; President- Organisation of Women in International Trade

Panel Discussion :

Anne Gaitha began the panel discussion by quoting the World Development Bank’s research findings that the need for gender equality on a development level is critical post COVID. Yavi then picked up from the pace that Anne had set by getting more acquainted with the panelists. Modesta introduced her NGO as a resource center for international trade and governance. She is passionate about partnering with other organizations to create awareness on the AfCFTA and the benefits women can get from this partnership. Madelein’s group runs women empowerment programs while creating awareness on the steps necessary to build success in the continent. Her focus was to empower women at all levels so that decision making could be leveraged to suit women.

Gloria’s professional role was to address the barriers that women experience in trade and to boost inclusion of women. She works with SMEs as well as people living with disabilities.

Gloria Atuheirwe Madelein Mkunu Modesta NsowaaAdu

Yavi Madurai

“We really believe that for Africa to reach the sustainability that we are looking for, we need to have more women on board or in decision making positions,”

Madelein Mkunu

Anne raised the issue of women trade experts in the context of gender relevance. Madelein explained that these experts could be anybody with extensive experience on trade. This was independent of educational background or gender. Pauline joined the conversation by supporting Madelein’s point of view. She encouraged women to be part of different organizations and build networks because one cannot get all the information they need from one person. Pauline was passionate about leaving no women behind by OWIT’s training on capacity building, mentorship,access to finance and market access.

Modesta disagreed with the opinion that expertise had to be viewed as education paired with experience. She was of the opinion that an expert can be someone who has sufficiently researched a certain area and collected enough data on it. People who design programs on international trade can also be considered experts.

Modesta added that we do not have enough women trade experts from the continental, regional and national levels. She mentioned several women leaders whose influence was benefitting women although they were in these positions for the first time in years. Gloria then spoke of research on the care economy and cross-border trade. She began with the high number of hours that women had to split between care work getting three hours and the rest on trading. The research showed that the dynamics of womanhood limited the trading time to almost 30%. The statistics also showed that the women who were able to venture out and seek better trade opportunities were subjected to increased gender based violence in the home especially from spouses.

“That’s why i’m really passionate about women economic development because it’s there that we can bring in more leaders,”

Pauline Okubasu

“We realize that if we are to benefit from programs like the AfCFTA, then experience and expertise cannot be overemphasized,”

Modesta Nsowaa-Adu“

“We found a correlation there. The more time you spend trying to find a market, the higher your risk of being a victim of gender based violence…The violence was irrespective of these parameters. It doesn’t mean that because you bring more money or less money, you are less vulnerable,”

Gloria Atuheirwe

Her organization engages men and sensitizes them on the benefits of trade for women. They also seek to digitize trade and to lessen the need to do business from outside the home environment. The strengthening of models that facilitate delivery services and online marketing and selling.

The panel discussion came to end with their thoughts on the things they would do if they had the power held by the minister of trade. Pauline said that she would ensure that there are more women in positions. She would also enmesh sensitization training to ensure better treatment of women within society. She also spoke of streamlining the current trade barriers within some timelines. Gloria said that the informal economy was the place to start. Her focus was on graduating the women who are stuck somewhere between the bottom and the top. The data issue would also need to be addressed so that the informal market was understood better. Modesta closed the session by stating that she would develop a women empowerment framework particularly women with disabilities. She called for strategic production and strategic consumption to shape that revolution into policy. Yavi closed by calling on more collaboration and no competition so as to drive an agenda for wealth.

Watch the final panel here https://youtu.be/lr2KpLTQ_r8

Vote of Thanks

Diana Gaitha- EliteGlobal Branding

Diana Gaitha Creative Director EliteGlobal Branding Speaker ( U.S.A)

Diana thanked the speakers and the moderators for the knowledge they imparted to the delegates. She highlighted the keynote speakers Bogolo and Pamela who set the pace for each day’s deliberations. Diana then recapped Bogolo’s speech on sustainable trade, development, and climate finance. She encouraged the continent to put this issue into perspective as it was affecting development. Pamela Mar’s contribution to digitizing our policies and trade data was also acknowledged. MR. Hermogenes’s contribution to the mindset of trade and development was noted as he encouraged growth and expansion globally and within the continent. Diana lauded the benefit of technology as it was one of the ways to innovate and change the narrative of the African experience.

Diana quoted an economist Dambisa Moyo who elevated the role of trade far above the role of aid. Her sentiments were echoed by Sara Baka. Women in trade were also lauded for their contribution to the trade space. Diana encouraged women to take up opportunities and also transition to manufacturing. She encouraged export within Inter African space and the globe.

Diana emphasized trade being the avenue for the creation of generational wealth. Diana concluded by thanking the organizers of the conference, Regal Africa under the leadership of the convener Anne Wambui Gaitha. Lastly, she acknowledged the contribution of the Elite Branding team and Eva’s Events as well as all the delegates for their attendance.

Watch the vote of thanks here https://youtu.be/6w8GFPW9tKE

SPONSORS

Regal Africa Business Institute (RABI) is an institution based in Nairobi, Kenya with a focus on promoting business excellence on the Africa continent with the understanding that business is the only sustainable way to eradicate poverty on the continent.

RABI is an institution that offers research, training, consulting services, and events & publications to Businesses, Individuals, Institutions, and Governments with a focus on the African continent.

RABI has three core centers of excellence with a focus on capacity building for African businesses through the Centre for International Trade, Centre for Investment & Development, and Centre for Diaspora Engagement

The Regal Africa “Centre for International Trade” is focused on promoting more intra Africa trade and Global Trade. We area think Tank providing thought leadership on the best ways to improve trade in Africa. We work with Institutions and Goverments to promote International trade.

We provide capacity building services to businesses that participate in international trade through our Trainings, Accelerator programs, Events and publications.

EliteGlobal Branding is a branding firm that loves to create unique brand experiences for it’s clients. Our clients include Businesses, Institutions and Personal brands. We specialize in coming up with creative solutions through Branding, Design, Art and Marketing.

Eva’s Events is a full service premium event planning company with in-house services to take care of all your event needs. We specialize in Corporate events, Weddings, Garden parties, Birthdays, Graduations as well as Traditional events.

Partners of the Africa Trade Conference

Speakers Company Website

Aminou Akadiri FEWACCI

https://fewacci.com

Anna Jankowska International Trade Centre. https://intracen.org

Anne Wambui Gaitha Regal Africa Group https://regalafrica.co.ke

Bogolo Kenewendo UN Climate Change High-Level Champions https://climatechampions.unfccc.int/

Caspar Pedo Fairtrade Africa https://fairtradeafrica.net

Doug Bruhnke Global Chamber https://www.globalchamber.org

Dr. Ben Shepherd Developing Trade Consultants. https://developing-trade.com

Gloria Atuheirwe TradeMark East Africa https://maps.prodafrica.com

Hannah Norberg TradeEconomista

http://www.tradeeconomista.com/

Hermogene Nsengimana African Organisation for Standardisation https://www.arso-oran.org/

John Bosco Kalisa East Africa Business Council https://eabc-online.com

John Karegwa Invest in Africa Summit https://investinginafrica.eu/

Joy Zenz Africa Women in Trade https://africawomenintrade.com

Madelein Mkunu Leading Women of Africa https://www.leadingwomenofafrica.com

Musa Mpofu World Fair Trade Organization Africa & Middle East, https://wfto-africa.org/

Ngozi Oyewole NOXIE LIMITED https://www.noxielimited.com

Oliver Fortune AIEC https://aiec.idp.com

Pamela Mar ICC www.iccwbo.org

Patience Chindong EuroAfri Link

Pauline Okubasu OWIT Kenya

Phyllis Mwangi Edge Consult Ltd

Rachel Mwakazi ManGo Development

https://euroafrilink.com

https://owitnairobi.org/

Edgeconsult.co.ke

https://www.mangodevelopment.org

Susan Baka TFO Canada https://tfocanada.ca

Wangeci Gitata-Kiriga Kijani Group/Revolutionary Co ee https://www.instagram.com/revolutionaryco ee/

Yavi Madurai The Pan African Business Women's Association https://www.pabwa.africa

Sammy Thuita DHL https://www.dhl.com

Teddy Soobramanien Comesa Business Council https://comesabusinesscouncil.org

Waleed El Zomo New Start for Medical Tourism and Services https://newstart-medical.com

Michelle Chivunga Global Policy House http://www.globalpolicyhouse.com

Adetutu Talabi Sidebrief Africa. https://sidebrief.com

Modesta Nsowaa-Adu CUTS International https://cuts-international.org

Rose Ronoh United Nations Economic Commission for Africa https://www.uneca.org

Caroline Keitany United Nations Economic Commission for Africa https://www.uneca.org

Melissa Harvey The Village Entrepreneurship https://www.instagram.com /thevillageentrepreneurship

Jaswinder (Jas) Bedi Kenya Export Promotion & Branding Agency. https://brand.ke

Representatives Company Website

Judith O. Idialu BigFarm Foods

https://www.bigfarmfood.com/

Linda Fernando Criattus http://criattus.co.mz

Hellen Akoth Omolo Africa Online Vocalists https://web.facebook.com/pro le.php?id=100064007226544

Vishnu Charran Oxanic Grow http://oxanicgrow.com

Dorese Ambani Oracom Web Solutions Ltd http://www.oracomgroup.com

Muna Abi Elmi Mubi Leather https://linktr.ee/mubi_leather

Ken Gitonga StockApp Africa https://www.stockapp.africa/

Ivy Bina Tynka Global http://www.tynka.org

Veronica Nyakianda Gakio Ankole Enterprises ltd https://www.instagram.com/ankoleluxury/

Thank You

TRADE CONFERENCE

We appreciate all the sponsors and partners who made the “Africa Trade Conference” 2022 possible and the speakers and moderators who made the conference a success.