
In a bustling metropolis adorned with promise and possibility, the Villa Rosa Kempinski in
Nairobi, Kenya, played host to a gathering of visionaries and changemakers. The occasion: an
(Africa Women and Youth Empowerment Group) AWYEG Workshop on the Impact of
Investment for Women and Youth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Presented by a consortium of esteemed partners, including the United States Department of
Commerce, Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP), African Women’s
Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP), and Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT),
the event promised to illuminate pathways to economic empowerment and prosperity.
As the sun rose over the city skyline, delegates from across the continent convened for the
opening ceremonies. Esteemed speakers, including Marc Dillard of the U.S. Embassy Nairobi
and Laura Akunga, Chairperson of AWEP Kenya Chapter, set the stage for two days of dynamic
discourse and collaboration. The agenda, meticulously curated to address the pressing issues
of investment facilitation and trade under the AfCFTA, promised a wealth of insights and
opportunities for engagement.
Day one commenced with a deep dive into the new Africa Investment Framework under the
AfCFTA, presented by expert investment advisor Patience Okala. The session sparked lively
discussions on the potential impact of the framework for SMEs and women and youth
enterprises, setting the tone for subsequent deliberations on government investment programs
and the financing of investment.
Throughout the day, panels of industry experts and thought leaders explored avenues for driving
inclusive growth and fostering economic resilience. Discussions ranged from the role of AGRA
programs in empowering women and youth to the potential of franchise investments in driving
intra-African and U.S.-Africa trade. As the sun set on day one, participants departed with a
renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to harnessing the transformative power of
investment for the benefit of all.
Day two dawned with a sense of anticipation as delegates reconvened for a day of immersive
engagement. From networking sessions aimed at forging strategic alliances to discussions on
investment in agriculture, fashion, and filmmaking, the agenda brimmed with opportunities for
learning and collaboration.
The workshop culminated in a spirited exchange on the impact of piracy on the creative industry
of Kenya, underscoring the need for robust mechanisms to safeguard intellectual property
rights. As the final recommendations were shared and next steps outlined, delegates departed
with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to driving sustainable growth and
prosperity across the African continent.
In the grand tapestry of Africa’s economic evolution, the AWYEG Workshop emerged as a
beacon of hope; a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and
investment in shaping a brighter future for all. As delegates dispersed into the Nairobi night,
their hearts brimmed with optimism and their minds teemed with possibilities, united in a shared
vision of prosperity and empowerment for generations to come.


Empowering SMEs for a Thriving Future
In the wake of the AWYEG Workshop, the SME Founders Association (SFA) reaffirmed its
commitment to supporting SMEs in navigating the evolving landscape of trade and investment.
Through initiatives aimed at capacity building, access to finance, and fostering strategic
partnerships, SFA continues to champion the cause of SMEs, empowering them to seize the
opportunities presented by initiatives such as the AfCFTA.
With a focus on networking, mentorship, and advocacy, SFA stands as a beacon of support for
SMEs, offering them the tools and resources needed to thrive in an ever-changing business
environment. As Africa charts a course towards a brighter economic future, SFA remains
steadfast in its mission to empower SMEs as engines of growth and catalysts for sustainable
development.
In addition to the impactful discussions and presentations, the event saw the active participation
of the SME Founders Association (SFA) as an outreach partner, further amplifying the reach
and impact of the workshop. SFA, known for its dedication to supporting small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), had a significant presence at the event, showcasing its
commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in the region.
Notably, SFA had 10 Young Ventures Accelerators (YVAs) in attendance, highlighting its
ongoing efforts to empower young entrepreneurs and ventures. Through initiatives like the
YVAs, SFA continues to provide invaluable support and resources to budding entrepreneurs,
equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive
business landscape. As an integral part of the event, SFA’s involvement underscored the
importance of collaboration and partnership in driving positive change and fostering economic
development.
