SMEs’ preparedness critical ahead AfCFTA implementation — CEO   

A consultancy firm, Compass Global, says the preparedness of SMEs and access to vital information are critical as countries move into the implementation phase of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

Mrs Tokunbo Chiedu, Chief Executive Officer, Compass Global, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Chiedu said that SMEs represent 90 per cent of  businesses, 60 per cent of which still operate in the informal sector, and employ about 60 per cent of workers, many of whom were women and youths.

According to her, the firm, through its Female Leaders and Entrepreneurs Conference (FLEC), would address the needs of SMEs for access to market intelligence, finance and trade information.

She said the platform would also provide market requirements as the region approaches the unfolding implementation of AfCFTA.

Chiedu said the conference would converge Africa’s brightest minds on Nov. 22, in Accra, Ghana, before moving the tour to Kenya in January 2022.

“The event, with its focal point on SMEs and Toolkits to Innovate, Survive and Sustain in the post – pandemic recovery phase, will undoubtedly help towards preparation of  SMEs in developing critical business linkages.

“These linkages will assist towards leveraging available business opportunities across the continent and to attract strategic partnerships that are vital for business,” she said.

Chiedu said delegates could look forward to compelling case studies, and vital lessons to be shared via the master classes that would take place during the event.

“FLEC is designed to provide our audience with experiential learning, and powerful tools; a means through which to promote personal or organisational empowerment.

“This will inspire the self-action that is required to build resilience in these challenging times,” she said.

Chiedu added that the key driver of the FLEC platform was the need to foster new business opportunities, and to  engage, and strengthen networks in the process, as demonstrated by the support of Ghana based Partners such as the Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs, and proudly supported by Africa Web.

Some of the expected special guests at the event are Dr Ibiene Ogolo Co Founder V&R Partners and Vivian Opondoh CEO & Co Founder Farmula, Kenya.

Other Speakers include Esthy Asante, Managing Director, Organics Trade and Investment, Jeph Acheampong Chief Executive Officer, Blossom Academy, Emmaline Datey, Chief Executive Officer ICS Africa, Rebecca Donkor Founder AMB Fair and other leading entrepreneurs from across multiple sectors.