TradeSmart Consult Ltd (TSCL) is committed to driving economic empowerment by equipping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with the knowledge and tools needed to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Recently, the company successfully conducted a series of AfCFTA capacity-building training sessions in Nairobi, Eldoret, and Machakos, aimed at preparing SMEs for trade expansion and market growth within Africa.
These impactful sessions were held in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, including the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), and TradeMark Africa (TMA).
The training sessions brought together a diverse group of SME owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, all eager to explore the opportunities presented by intra-African trade. The sessions covered:
✔ Market Access under AfCFTA – Understanding how SMEs can expand into new African markets.
✔ Trade Facilitation – Addressing the logistical and regulatory frameworks for cross-border trade.
✔ Rules of Origin – Equipping SMEs with the knowledge to maximize AfCFTA trade benefits.
✔ Competitiveness Strategies – Helping businesses position themselves for success in a rapidly integrating market.
Through interactive discussions, case studies, and Q&A sessions, participants gained practical insights into integrating their businesses into regional and global value chains.
TradeSmart recognizes that women and youth form a significant portion of SME owners in Kenya. That’s why the company continues to champion inclusive trade policies, ensuring that they are well-positioned to benefit from AfCFTA. By bridging the knowledge gap and fostering strategic partnerships, TSCL aim to build a resilient and competitive SME sector that can drive economic transformation.
The insights and strategies shared during these training sessions will have a lasting impact on how SMEs navigate the AfCFTA framework. As we move forward, TradeSmart remains committed to delivering more capacity-building initiatives that enable Kenyan businesses to thrive on the continental stage.
