UNECA Cites Persistent Gender Inequality as Major Constraint to AfCFTA Gains
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has identified persistent gender inequality across the continent as a major constraint to the full realisation of benefits under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), warning that continued exclusion of women from economic activities will undermine inclusive growth and sustainable development.
In its latest report themed “Advancing the Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area: Proposing Transformative Strategic Actions”, UNECA noted that although strides have been made in promoting gender equality, significant disparities remain—particularly in economic empowerment, digital access, and representation in public and political life.
The report reveals that deep-rooted social and cultural norms, occupational segregation, and low digital literacy among women are key barriers to achieving gender parity. It further underscores that such inequality limits women’s participation in productive sectors and hinders their ability to leverage the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA.
“Occupational segregation confines women to low-productivity sectors, while the gender digital divide excludes them from digital trade opportunities,” the Commission stated. According to 2023 statistics cited by UNECA, internet usage in Africa stood at 32 per cent for females compared to 42 per cent for males—one of the lowest regional figures globally.
Notably, UNECA observes that North Africa remains one of the subregions with the lowest female labour force participation rates in the world, alongside the Middle East.
To unlock the full potential of the AfCFTA and foster inclusive development, the Commission outlined four strategic action areas to empower women economically:
Enhancing Inclusion in Education and Employment
UNECA calls for increased access for women and girls to education and employment, with a focus on both soft and technical skills. This includes leadership development, mentorship, business networks, and supply chain opportunities. Encouraging female participation in male-dominated sectors through apprenticeships is also advocated.Promoting STEM and Digital Literacy
Recognising the economic potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), the report urges the promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and digital literacy for women and girls. Technological advancements in AI, blockchain, and biotech, UNECA noted, offer new economic frontiers that women must be equipped to engage in meaningfully.Improving Access to Digital Finance and Fintech
With Africa hosting the highest number of digital finance providers globally, UNECA highlights mobile money as a game changer for women. It recommends improved regulatory oversight and financial policies to expand women’s access to credit, payment systems, and digital finance platforms, especially for female entrepreneurs and traders.Addressing Structural Financial Barriers and IP Protection
The financing gap for women entrepreneurs in Africa, estimated at US$42 billion, remains a critical hurdle. UNECA notes that systemic barriers to asset ownership, collateral access, and formal banking exclude many women from accessing credit. The Commission also stressed the need to strengthen women’s understanding and protection of intellectual property rights to boost their confidence in online trading and cross-border commerce.
“Financial institutions must remove restrictions limiting women’s access to credit, while regulatory agencies must work to safeguard women’s intellectual property and streamline cross-border trading procedures,” UNECA emphasized.
Ultimately, the Commission argues that gender equality must be treated as a cornerstone of AfCFTA implementation. Inclusive policy design, regulatory reforms, and institutional capacity building are essential to unlocking the economic potential of Africa’s women and ensuring that the AfCFTA delivers broad-based benefits across the continent.
