The Untold Truth Behind AFCFTA, Women in Business, and Diaspora Contributions

In recent years, Africa has been the subject of global economic discussions, especially with the introduction of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA). This monumental trade agreement has created endless opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities across the continent and beyond. However, there remains a significant gap in the conversation—how is the diaspora community tapping into these opportunities? And what role do women, who form the backbone of African economies, play in driving this transformation?

To dive deeper into these pressing issues, DTC Official GH had an insightful conversation with Davisha L. Johnson, the founder and chairwoman of the African Diaspora Collective, at a recent AFCFTA event. Davisha, a powerful voice in the African business space, shared profound insights about the role of women, youth, and the African diaspora in shaping Africa’s economic future. You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel here for a detailed look at her discussion.

The Role of the African Diaspora in AFCFTA

One of the most compelling points Davisha raised during the interview was the pivotal role that the African diaspora plays in tapping into the AFCFTA’s framework. Many in the diaspora, particularly African Americans, are consumer-driven, creating an automatic market for African-made products. By utilizing the “rules of origin” principle, which ensures that base products come from African countries before being exported, businesses in Africa can collaborate with the diaspora to create value-added goods that meet market demands.

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For example, something as simple as growing orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Ghana and exporting them to African-American communities in the U.S. or other African countries under the AFCFTA can create a massive economic shift. Through such collaborations, local farmers and SMEs can expand their market access while boosting intra-African trade. This is an often overlooked aspect of the AFCFTA that the diaspora is strategically positioned to leverage.

For a more detailed breakdown of how these trade agreements work and the strategies businesses are using, make sure to watch the full interview here.

Women: The Unseen Backbone of Africa’s Economy

Another significant highlight from the panel, and Davisha’s interview, was the undeniable influence of women in Africa’s economic systems. As she pointed out, it’s no accident that the term is “market women” and not “market men.” Women make up 98% of market traders and 80% of farmers in many parts of Africa. Yet, despite their critical roles, women hold less than 5% of positions in parliaments and boardrooms across the continent.

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Davisha stressed the need to shift this dynamic, advocating for women to be given more leadership opportunities. Women are already the backbone of the family and community—why shouldn’t they lead in business and politics as well? She also emphasized the importance of educating women about the AFCFTA, which has a protocol dedicated to both women and youth. By providing women with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need, Africa stands a greater chance of achieving economic independence and growth.

For a deeper dive into how women are driving economic change across Africa, check out the full conversation here.

The Power of the Informal Sector

Africa’s informal sector is a vibrant part of the economy but remains largely unstructured. In Ghana, for instance, 80% of trade occurs in this sector. Davisha shared insights into how countries like Kenya have successfully formalized their informal economies through licensing and health protocols. This not only boosts the efficiency of these businesses but also makes them competitive on a global scale.

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She emphasized the role of education in this process—how the right knowledge can empower entrepreneurs in the informal sector to formalize their businesses and take advantage of trade opportunities within Africa and beyond. By focusing on capacity building, especially for youth and women, African economies can create sustainable growth pathways.

Davisha’s perspective provides a clear roadmap for formalizing the informal sector in Africa, offering solutions that don’t always rely on government intervention but instead on grassroots partnerships. To learn more about these game-changing insights, make sure to watch the full video here.

Conclusion

Africa’s economic transformation is underway, and key players like the African diaspora and women are at the forefront of this change. However, as Davisha L. Johnson’s interview reveals, there is still much work to be done. From educating the diaspora on AFCFTA’s opportunities to empowering women and formalizing the informal sector, these are the building blocks that will secure Africa’s future.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Africa can unlock its full economic potential, I highly recommend watching this enlightening interview with Davisha L. Johnson on DTC Official GH. It’s packed with actionable insights and a fresh perspective on Africa’s growth story that you won’t want to miss.