Market research is key to success for young entrepreneurs.

• Date: 30 September 2023

What trade prospects does the AfCFTA present for African youth?

The AfCFTA holds immense potential. Imagine what it means when people across Africa can finally access a single market for goods and services! The removal of trade barriers presents opportunities for young people looking for new markets. They are entrepreneurial, open-minded and view risk differently.

We trade a lot with Europe, China and other regions, but now we are increasing the potential for a young Kenyan farmer or entrepreneur to find a new market for Kenyan tea in Nigeria or Morocco or to access Moroccan mint tea for sale in the Kenyan market. That is a big opportunity.

The AfCFTA also promotes investment and industrialization, and so it's also about increasing openings for jobs in manufacturing and tapping into new...