This report presents a comprehensive understanding of the trends and patterns in resilience and innovation by informal cross-border trade (ICBT) in East Africa. By synthesizing data collected from more than 20,000 ICBTs throughout the region before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, this report presents a case study of the innovations that helped ICBTs learn to ‘live with COVID’ and those adaptations that are driving recovery. Resilience and innovation are explored from three key perspectives, which are present throughout the report: digitalization; access to finance; and safety. Specific attention is paid to the unique experience of women and youth with the objective to identifying entry points for inclusive and meaningful development in the ICBT sector