Continental programme to empower women, youths
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has teamed up with Mastercard Foundation and TradeMark Africa in a four-year fisheries programme to be implemented across seven countries.
The partnership will provide over 240 000 job opportunities and boost trade in fish and fish products by about $100 million (K175 billion) by 2028.
The Women and Youth Economic Empowerment in Fisheries programme will enhance the participation of women and youth in fisheries in line with the adopted AfCFTA Protocol on Women and Youths in Trade, according to AfCFTA secretariat.
AfCFTA secretary general Wamkele Mene said the African continental trade bloc presents huge opportunities while fostering entrepreneurship and job creation in a market of 1.4 billion people.
He said: “The AfCFTA’s Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade has been developed to foster inclusive economic development by eliminating barriers to trade for women and young people in Africa.
“We are glad the programme aligns with our vision of bringing this marginalised group along on this journey to increase intra-Africa trade in creating one African market to ensure prosperity for all Africans. We encourage the potential beneficiaries to take advantage of this programme.”
In her remarks, TradeMark Africa deputy chief executive officer Allen Sophia Asiimwe, said: “The start of this programme is an important step forward in our support for inclusive trade, economic empowerment and sustainable jobs creation for women and youth in Africa’s fisheries sector.
“Addressing the structural barriers which are unique to women and young people in the fish value chain is a critical necessity that aims to enhance the participation and competitiveness of programme participants in the sector.”
She said with this collaborative effort, the sector will be better-positioned as a pathway for economic growth, food security, and poverty alleviation in Africa.”
On his part, Mastercard Foundation executive director Daniel Hailu, said: “This programme has the potential to catalyse dignified and fulfilling work opportunities for young men and women, foster intra-African trade, and contribute to economic growth and poverty alleviation.
“Together, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable future for all.”
TradeMark Africa will implement the programme to benefit small, medium and micro enterprises in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Nigeria and selected Island states.
