Crossing Borders: Challenges Facing African Women Entrepreneurs

Informal cross-border trade in Africa is vital for economic growth and poverty reduction yet women, who dominate the industry, face many hurdles.

What to know:

  • Millions of women in Africa rely on informal cross-border trade to feed their families.
  • Women dominate this industry, which generates 42% of Africa's GDP, but face hurdles preventing them from thriving.
  • To empower these entrepreneurs, we must first understand their challenges. Take the quiz to learn more.

Learn More about this cause:

For decades, due to limited formal job opportunities, millions of women in Africa have turned to selling goods and products informally to neighbouring countries to help feed their families and make ends meet. 

Informal cross-border trade work has offered a lifeline for many families – it provides income, reduces poverty and contributes significantly to economic growth. However, women who dominate this industry, face a host of barriers which prevent their businesses from flourishing. 

From exploitation, to violence to corruption, Amnesty International have launched a new report which helps spotlight these hurdles and offers recommendations. To create a future where they can thrive, we must first understand their challenges. 

Take this quiz to find out how much you know already.