The State Department for Trade, in collaboration with the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Kenya and OWIT Africa, hosted the Youth Summit as part of the Africa Women in Trade Forum 2026.
The summit focused on empowering young people to tap into emerging trade opportunities across the continent.
Held under the theme “Accelerating Women-Led Trade for Africa Economic Transformation,” the Youth Summit brought together young leaders, youth entrepreneurs, policymakers and key players in the trade ecosystem to explore opportunities for greater youth participation in regional and international trade.
Speaking at the event, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, who was the Chief Guest, commended Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam for championing youth participation in cross-border trade.
PS Jacobs noted that the Government was leveraging the energy, creativity and agility of young people to shape the future of Africa’s trade agenda, emphasizing the importance of equipping them with the knowledge, skills and opportunities necessary to compete in regional and international markets.
The summit provided a platform for young people to engage on opportunities available under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), digital trade, business financing and market access, while highlighting the role of youth in driving innovation, entrepreneurship and Africa’s economic transformation.
They also stated the importance of strengthening youth-led enterprises, improving access to business financing, expanding digital trade opportunities and facilitating entry into new markets.
These interventions will enable young entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, create employment and benefit from the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
