About AWIP

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Taking Advantage of Opportunities Under the AfCFTA – A Path to Prosperity.

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The African Women in Processing (AWIP) Forum is an integral initiative of the African Union that champions women’s leadership and participation in Africa’s industrial transformation. AWIP provides a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and policy advocacy to empower women entrepreneurs in processing industries. By leveraging the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), AWIP aims to accelerate women-led industrialization and foster sustainable economic growth.
The third AWIP Forum will take place from December 9–13, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, alongside the Africa Industrialization Week (AIW).

Expected Outcomes

Greater capacity for women entrepreneurs to leverage the AfCFTA’s integrated market.
Policy recommendations for creating an enabling environment for women-led industrialisation.
Expanded opportunities for collaboration, funding, and innovation in key industrial sectors.

AWIP through the Years

Our Journey

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Location: Cairo, Egypt (held during the Intra-African Trade Fair)

The second AWIP Forum focused on connecting women entrepreneurs to regional and international markets while promoting digital innovation.

Key Activities:

  • Training sessions on leveraging digital tools for market access and financial inclusion.
  • Networking events connecting women entrepreneurs with investors and policymakers.
  • Exhibitions showcasing women-led innovations in industrial processing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Strengthened networks and partnerships to support women-led enterprises.
  • Greater visibility for innovative women entrepreneurs across Africa​
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Location: Niamey, Niger

The inaugural AWIP Forum highlighted the potential of women entrepreneurs to drive industrial growth under the AfCFTA.

Key Activities:

  • Knowledge-sharing sessions on leveraging AfCFTA opportunities.
    Showcasing successful women-led enterprises in agro-processing and fashion.
  • Advocacy for addressing structural barriers to women’s participation in trade.

Key Takeaways:

  • Enhanced awareness of the gender dimension in industrialization.
  • Establishment of a platform for continuous dialogue and capacity building for women entrepreneurs​.

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Driving Africa's Industrialization, Empowering Women in Africa.

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African Union Commission, Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM)

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