Under the slogan “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access, and Affordable Finance for Africa,” the event, scheduled to run until June 27, is designed to foster expert and peer exchanges, address challenges, and speed up their growth within the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA).

It brings together policymakers, financial institutions, development partners, and entrepreneurs to assess the current situation of these businesses on the continent, share practical strategies that seek to improve access to finance, market opportunities, and digital tools, among other objectives.

The forum also seeks to support women- and youth-led MSMEs, promote regional integration through the ACFTA, and highlight models for expanding affordable finance and improving the business environment.

This is aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for sustainable development, empowering African small businesses to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and contribute to long-term job creation across the continent.

Likewise, the debates will offer Evidence-based solutions on how entrepreneurs can access financing, among other barriers.

The creation of the annual forum is in tune with the African Union’s Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) Strategy, adopted in January 2019 by the Second Specialized Technical Committee on Trade, Industry, and Minerals.

Since its foundation, the forum has brought together more than 900 industry leaders, policymakers, and small businesses to foster innovation, enhance capacity, and promote sustainable development.

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