Achieving the vision of the AfCFTA requires the inclusive participation of all demographic economic groups: women, youth, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Women constitute nearly 50% of Africa’s labour force and run about 30% of registered businesses, yet they face disproportionate challenges in accessing finance and markets. Similarly, Africa’s youth (a population under 35) representing over 60% of the population, are driving innovation in tech and entrepreneurship but often lack the necessary support structures. SMEs, which account for 80% of employment and 50% of GDP in many African countries, struggle with scalability due to limited access to regional markets.

Many African entrepreneurs remain unaware of the opportunities within AfCFTA. Bridging this gap requires targeted awareness campaigns to empower, digital marketplaces to innovate, and capacity-building programs that enables them to trade within the continent. An inclusive AfCFTA must prioritise policies that enable these groups to thrive through easier trade regulations, digital tools, and targeted funding. These groups collectively represent a significant portion of Africa’s population and economic activity but face systemic barriers limited access to finance, markets, skills, and technology.