The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a significant opportunity to empower women and young people in trade across the African continent. With a market of 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion, the AfCFTA aims to lift millions out of poverty and boost incomes. However, to ensure equitable and inclusive growth, it is crucial to prioritize the empowerment of women and youth within this framework.
AfCFTA’s vision explicitly recognizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women as key drivers for sustainable development. The forthcoming Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade emerges as a catalyst for change, offering a unique opportunity to advance women’s rights, entrepreneurship, labor rights, and equal pay. By integrating the principles of the Beijing Platform for Action and the Maputo Protocol, the AfCFTA and the protocol create a comprehensive approach to empower women across all sectors.
The AfCFTA also provides a platform for nurturing a new generation of female entrepreneurs by removing barriers to trade and fostering a conducive environment for business. However, it is essential to protect labor rights and eradicate exploitation, as labor exploitation often disproportionately affects women. The agreement must include robust mechanisms to ensure decent work and fair wages, creating an environment where women can thrive without fear of exploitation.
Furthermore, policies should support women in balancing work and family life, ensure income redistribution, and prioritize the creation and enhancement of safety nets to shield vulnerable populations from economic shocks. With careful and deliberate policy actions, the implementation of AfCFTA could increase wages for women and empower them to contribute significantly to sustainable development.
The time to champion women’s empowerment as a cornerstone for sustainable and inclusive growth is now. By aligning the goals of AfCFTA and the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, a brighter and more equitable future can be paved for all, regardless of gender, across the African continent.
