There is enormous potential for African countries to increase their trade both with the global market and with each other. Women currently play a key role in trade in Africa and will have to be at the heart of Africa’s success in exploiting this trade potential. However, Africa’s potential in trade is undermined by the particular constraints that are often faced by women.
 This documentary tells the story of women that took advantage of trade opportunities and - despite gender related challenges and barriers - successfully seized foreign markets. Their stories show that eliminating gender specific barriers will boost trade in Africa. |
The World Bank's and UNCTAD's work on the issue presents a series of country experiences that look at the ways that women participate in trade in Africa, the constraints they face and their impact.
Mr. Petko Draganov
Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Mr. Paul Brenton
Trade Practice Leader, Poverty Reduction and Economic Management, World Bank Group
Chief, Trade, Gender and Development Section, and Gender Focal Point, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
H.E. Ambassador Amanda Ellis
Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the United Nations
"Women and Trade in Africa: Realizing the Potential" demonstrates how women play a key role in trade in Africa and will be essential to the continent’s success in exploiting its trade potential.
The report calls for African governments to recognize the role that women play in trade and ensure this is communicated to officials at all levels. It asks governments to ensure that the rules and regulations governing trade are clear, transparent and widely available at borders, and encourages policy makers to simplify documents and regulatory requirements where possible.
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