Abuja, 5th December 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, in partnership with the Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (WCCIMA), has made a significant stride in empowering Nigerian women entrepreneurs by hosting the HerAfCFTA Forum in Abuja. This landmark event focused on strengthening the capacity of 100 women-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to capitalize on the trading opportunities available under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Under the theme "Empowering Women-led MSMEs for Continental Trade Opportunities", the Forum brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, and potential investors to explore how Nigerian women can thrive in regional and continental trade. The initiative was designed to address the specific challenges women-led MSMEs face in accessing opportunities within AfCFTA, such as limited export readiness, difficulties in branding, compliance with product standards, and restricted access to wider markets.

The comprehensive program provided key support to overcome these barriers, including:

• Masterclasses: Participants received in-depth training on AfCFTA protocols, export documentation, and branding strategies, significantly enhancing their competitiveness in regional markets.
• Market Intelligence: Detailed reports offered actionable insights into trade opportunities, particularly within the Southern and Eastern African regions.
• Networking Opportunities: Business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking events facilitated connections with potential buyers, suppliers, and investors, fostering new strategic partnerships.
• Trade Facilitation Support: Practical assistance in logistics and access to production equipment helped participants scale up their operations to meet regional market demands.

By addressing these critical challenges, the initiative empowered women-led MSMEs to navigate the complexities of cross-border trade, strengthen value chains, and enhance productivity in high-demand sectors.

Ms. Weyinmi Eribo, Director-General of WCCIMA, during the Forum mentioned that “This collaboration with UNDP marks a pivotal moment in unlocking the full potential of women-led MSMEs in Nigeria. We are proud to be part of an initiative that not only builds capacity but also opens new avenues for women entrepreneurs to thrive in continental trade, driving economic growth and creating lasting change.”

Mr. Tony Muhumuza, Senior Economist at UNDP stated that, “At UNDP, we are making steady strides toward empowering women-led MSMEs to unlock their full potential in cross-border trade. By equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to navigate the complexities of AfCFTA, at UNDP, we are laying the foundation for greater participation in regional markets. We are optimistic that this initiative will reach even more women, helping them expand their businesses and contribute to sustainable economic growth across Nigeria and beyond”

The success of the HerAfCFTA Forum highlights the ongoing efforts of UNDP to empower women-led MSMEs across Nigeria. As part of the larger HerAfCFTA initiative, UNDP and WCCIMA will continue to equip women entrepreneurs with the tools needed to succeed in international markets, advancing both their businesses and Nigeria’s role in the continent’s economic integration.

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About HerAfCFTA

HerAfCFTA is an initiative stemming from UNDP's renewed strategic focus on Africa, leveraging inter-African trade as a key mechanism for poverty reduction, job creation, and increasing foreign exchange. Launched by the UNDP Regional Director for Africa at the inaugural AfCFTA Business Forum in 2023, HerAfCFTA underscores the importance of collective effort and calls on all development actors to invest consistently, in supercharging export readiness. For women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, this framework presents several opportunities that could potentially transform their business prospects.

About UNDP

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organisation fighting to end the injustices of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in over 170 countries, UNDP helps nations to build integrated and lasting solutions for people and the planet.

 In Nigeria, UNDP provides technical and policy development support to the Federal Government of Nigeria and supports the implementation of interventions across various thematic areas to meet the medium to long-term national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Learn more: https://www.undp.org/nigeria

About WCCIMA

The Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (WCCIMA) is dedicated to empowering and advancing women in Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture. WCCIMA’s commitment is to enhance women’s participation in these sectors. Through strategic initiatives, advocacy, and collaboration, the chamber aims to create a dynamic platform that not only fosters economic activity but also serves as a powerful advocate for women’s interests in the business world.

Learn more: https://wccima.ng/ 

For Media Inquiries, please contact:

Christabel Chanda-Ginsberg

Public Engagement, Outreach and Partnerships Lead

United Nations Development Programme

christabel.chanda-ginsberg@undp.org

Jean Andy-Orlu

Administration Lead

The Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (WCCIMA)

admin@wccima.ng