Latest news with #UNECA
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
ECA capacitates Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi in e-commerce tools and marketing strategies
'I commend UNECA and the Government of Italy for this collaboration to organise this workshop that will provide public and private sector stakeholders with practical tools and methodologies to harness the full potential of e-commerce in driving export growth, enhancing market access, and building competitiveness in global and regional markets'. She was speaking at the workshop on E-Commerce Marketing and Business Development Strategies for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Global Markets convened by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), through its African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP) and its Sub-Regional Office for Southern Africa (SROSA) and funded by the Government of Italy. The overall objective of the workshop was to strengthen the skills of participants from Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe to leverage e-trade opportunities in the context of AfCFTA. Mr. Enrico de Agostini, Ambassador of Italy in Zambia reiterated the importance of capacity building of entrepreneurs in the region to ensure sustainable development. Ms. Beatrice Mutali, United Nations Resident Coordinator, speaking on behalf of the UN family in Zambia underscored the importance of partnerships between governments, international partners, private sector and the UN to address the gaps in digital trade such as infrastructure, connectivity to payment systems and regulatory frameworks. The Director of ECA Subregional office for Southern Africa, Ms. Eunice Kamwendo, in her opening remarks, emphasised the efforts of ECA in implementing innovative and practical initiatives in order to better support member states. An example of which is this e-commerce training that was intended to provide strategic and practical tools necessary to unlock opportunities in the e-commerce space under the AfCFTA and in global markets. She further noted that, the AfCFTA, with its promise of a US$3.4 trillion single market, presents ECA and its partners with a unique platform to reimagine value chains, promote innovation, and stimulate sustainable growth driven by the private sector. 'At ECA, we believe that digitalization when guided by inclusive policies and backed by the right skills can bridge development gaps, unlock new markets, and catalyze youth employment'. To complement the training ECA-SROSA experts presented on the AfCFTA and initiatives related to the implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. Ms. Zodwa Mabuza, Chief Sub-Regional Initiatives outlined the protocol on digital trade indicating that it helps harmonize rules to boost Africa's digital economy, cutting cross-border e-commerce costs, building trust, and supporting Small and Medium Enterprises. Ms. Bineswaree Bolaky, Economic Affairs Officer presented on the AfCFTA, its rationale and instruments, and on ECA's work on AfCFTA, e-commerce and digital trade including outlining ECA's support to member States on developing their National AfCFTA Strategies and Green Supplements to these strategies. Mr. Henry Lubinda, Programme Officer gave an overview of SRO-SA's major areas of support to member States such as inclusive industrialization, green transitions, enhanced food systems and AfCFTA-led trade in Southern Africa. The training consisting of 6 sessions, was facilitated by Mr. Fabio Santoni ASeS-CeFor, the implementing partner of the project funded by Italy. Participants were trained through scenarios and business simulation techniques. At the closing of the workshop, certificates were remitted to participants by Mr. Aime Mbatkam, coordinator of the project at ECA's training arm, the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning. This collaborative initiative between ECA and the Government of Italy aimed at supporting Member states through a capacity building programme for the effective implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. Under Phase 2, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Malawi, Mauritania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe benefitted from (i) an assessment of e-trade readiness and (ii) a capacity needs assessment of stakeholders for AfCFTA implementation. These studies informed the design of the online training courses that were subseuqently delivered.
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) capacitates Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi in e-commerce tools and marketing strategies
The Permanent Secretary, Zambia Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry (MCTI), Mrs Lillian Bwalya said, the workshop takes place at a pivotal moment as Africa intensifies efforts to operationalise the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), 'I commend UNECA and the Government of Italy for this collaboration to organise this workshop that will provide public and private sector stakeholders with practical tools and methodologies to harness the full potential of e-commerce in driving export growth, enhancing market access, and building competitiveness in global and regional markets'. She was speaking at the workshop on E-Commerce Marketing and Business Development Strategies for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Global Markets convened by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), through its African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP) and its Sub-Regional Office for Southern Africa (SROSA) and funded by the Government of Italy. The overall objective of the workshop was to strengthen the skills of participants from Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe to leverage e-trade opportunities in the context of AfCFTA. Mr. Enrico de Agostini, Ambassador of Italy in Zambia reiterated the importance of capacity building of entrepreneurs in the region to ensure sustainable development. Ms. Beatrice Mutali, United Nations Resident Coordinator, speaking on behalf of the UN family in Zambia underscored the importance of partnerships between governments, international partners, private sector and the UN to address the gaps in digital trade such as infrastructure, connectivity to payment systems and regulatory frameworks. The Director of ECA Subregional office for Southern Africa, Ms. Eunice Kamwendo, in her opening remarks, emphasised the efforts of ECA in implementing innovative and practical initiatives in order to better support member states. An example of which is this e-commerce training that was intended to provide strategic and practical tools necessary to unlock opportunities in the e-commerce space under the AfCFTA and in global markets. She further noted that, the AfCFTA, with its promise of a US$3.4 trillion single market, presents ECA and its partners with a unique platform to reimagine value chains, promote innovation, and stimulate sustainable growth driven by the private sector. 'At ECA, we believe that digitalization when guided by inclusive policies and backed by the right skills can bridge development gaps, unlock new markets, and catalyze youth employment'. To complement the training ECA-SROSA experts presented on the AfCFTA and initiatives related to the implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. Ms. Zodwa Mabuza, Chief Sub-Regional Initiatives outlined the protocol on digital trade indicating that it helps harmonize rules to boost Africa's digital economy, cutting cross-border e-commerce costs, building trust, and supporting Small and Medium Enterprises. Ms. Bineswaree Bolaky, Economic Affairs Officer presented on the AfCFTA, its rationale and instruments, and on ECA's work on AfCFTA, e-commerce and digital trade including outlining ECA's support to member States on developing their National AfCFTA Strategies and Green Supplements to these strategies. Mr. Henry Lubinda, Programme Officer gave an overview of SRO-SA's major areas of support to member States such as inclusive industrialization, green transitions, enhanced food systems and AfCFTA-led trade in Southern Africa. The training consisting of 6 sessions, was facilitated by Mr. Fabio Santoni ASeS-CeFor, the implementing partner of the project funded by Italy. Participants were trained through scenarios and business simulation techniques. At the closing of the workshop, certificates were remitted to participants by Mr. Aime Mbatkam, coordinator of the project at ECA's training arm, the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning. This collaborative initiative between ECA and the Government of Italy aimed at supporting Member states through a capacity building programme for the effective implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. Under Phase 2, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Malawi, Mauritania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe benefitted from (i) an assessment of e-trade readiness and (ii) a capacity needs assessment of stakeholders for AfCFTA implementation. These studies informed the design of the online training courses that were subseuqently delivered. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DStv Inducted into Brand Africa Hall of Fame and Named #1 Most Admired African Media Brand 2025
DStv, Africa's leading entertainment platform, has been officially recognised as the #1 Most Admired African Media Brand in the Brand Africa 100 | Africa's Best Brands 2025 rankings. This recognition also sees DStv inducted into the prestigious Brand Africa Hall of Fame, a distinction reserved for iconic African brands that have significantly shaped the continent's global image and competitiveness over the years. The announcement was made at a high-profile ceremony hosted at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, where leaders from across the African media and branding landscape gathered to honour the continent's most impactful brands. Launched in 1995, DStv has evolved from a digital satellite television pioneer into a content powerhouse, transforming the African viewing experience through continuous innovation, investment in local content, and a deep commitment to telling African stories. 'This honour reflects the incredible journey we've taken with our audiences across Africa. Being named Africa's most admired media brand and joining the Brand Africa Hall of Fame is not just a celebration of where we've come from—it's a reaffirmation of where we're going. Our commitment to local storytelling, cultural authenticity, and innovation remains stronger than ever. We are proud to be a brand that not only entertains but uplifts and connects Africans through stories that matter.' States Calvo Mawela, Group CEO of MultiChoice. Each year, the Brand Africa 100 survey identifies the most admired brands across the continent, based on independent research conducted in over 30 African countries, representing over 85% of Africa's population and GDP, with more than 150,000 brand mentions and 5,930 unique brands. The rankings are compiled through a rigorous process led by research partners including GeoPoll, Kantar, Integrate, and Analysis, making it the only pan-African, research-led and non-commercial brand equity study of its kind. DStv's induction into the Hall of Fame further cements its position not just as a media brand, but as a cultural force that continues to shape narratives and inspire pride across Africa. Through its investments in local productions, partnerships with African creators, and focus on quality storytelling, DStv remains at the forefront of Africa's growing creative economy. DStv was also honoured with the same top recognition in 2024, reinforcing its consistent excellence and enduring connection with audiences across Africa. Since its launch 30 years ago with just 16 channels, DStv has evolved into a dynamic content powerhouse, offering a rich mix of local productions, global entertainment, and integrated streaming options. Today, it serves millions of households across the continent, delivering hundreds of channels and platforms that reflect the diversity, creativity, and aspirations of African viewers. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.
The Star
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
UNECA chief urges African brands to boost global visibility
ADDIS ABABA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Claver Gatete has called on African countries and businesses to intensify efforts to enhance the global visibility and competitiveness of African brands. Gatete made the call on Friday during the unveiling of the "Brand Africa 100: Africa's Best Brands 2025" ranking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, which highlighted the continent's most admired brands. With Africa's rising middle class propelling the continent's consumer market, which is projected to surpass 2.2 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030, Africa's branding story is equally diverse and dynamic across the continent, Gatete said. He cited examples of African innovation and value addition: Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire in cocoa processing, Kenya in mobile banking, Nigeria's creative industries, Rwanda's green transformation initiatives, and South Africa's industrial base. Gatete underscored the continent's demographic advantage, with more than 70 percent of its population under the age of 35, calling it "far-reaching implications" for sustainable development. Despite this potential, he acknowledged that only a handful of African brands have achieved meaningful global visibility, a challenge that must be addressed through coordinated action. To address the challenge, Gatete proposed five strategic pathways to integrate authentic African brands into the continent's broader development agenda and enhance their international competitiveness. "It is imperative that we keep in mind that what defines a brand is not merely a logo or a slogan. An authentic African brand must straddle the embodiment of Africa's stories, culture, and aspirations," he said. Jointly organized by Brand Africa, UNECA, and African Business, the Africa's Best Brands 2025 ranking was determined through a comprehensive survey conducted in 31 countries.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Experts Convene in Washington to Advance Dialogue on an African-Led Credit Rating Ecosystem
With more than 30 African countries subject to sovereign credit ratings, the decisions of global rating agencies significantly impact debt sustainability and access to international financial markets. At a high-level dialogue held on the sidelines of the 2025 IMF–World Bank Spring Meetings, African institutions and global credit rating agencies reaffirmed their commitment to developing a fair, transparent, and inclusive credit rating ecosystem for Africa. Organized by the African Union's African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), AfriCatalyst, and the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), and hosted at the Open Society Foundations, the dialogue brought together senior representatives from Moody's, S&P, and Bank of America for a candid discussion on financing solutions for African countries. Against a backdrop of rising market volatility, sovereign defaults and constrained fiscal space, the dialogue aimed to address urgent reforms in Africa's credit rating framework. Speakers identified structural issues such as data gaps, methodological opacity, and under-engagement between African governments and the 'big three' credit rating agencies (Moody's, S&P, and Fitch), as barriers to accurate ratings. Amb. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of UNECA, acknowledged Africa's financing paradox—a combined GDP of over $3 trillion, yet only two countries rated investment grade—and underscored the urgent need for reform. 'Ultimately, a healthy credit rating ecosystem goes beyond evaluating risk – it becomes a platform for mobilizing capital, improving creditworthiness, and supporting Africa's broader development goals,' he added. 'We must rethink how creditworthiness is defined and measured,' said Dr. Raymond Gilpin, Chief Economist, UNDP Africa speaking on behalf of Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP Regional Director for Africa. 'At UNDP, we believe a development-centric approach is essential to supporting governments in strengthening institutions, improving data systems, and engaging effectively with credit rating agencies to reshape the narrative around Africa's creditworthiness.' African economies face mounting credit rating challenges, including perceptions of bias, lack of transparency and inconsistencies in rating methodologies. Dr. Misheck Mutize, Lead Credit Rating Expert at APRM, and Dr. Zuzana Schwidrowski, Director of Macroeconomics, Governance and Finance at UNECA, proposed solutions to addressing the capacity of African governments to respond to inaccurate or unfair credit ratings and steps toward creating an African Credit Rating Agency that complements and expands existing credit ratings coverage globally. Mr. Roberto Sifon-Arevelo, Managing Director at S&P Global Ratings, Mr. Jorge Valez, Senior Vice President at Moody's Ratings, and Dr. Tatonga Rusike, Chief Economist for Africa at Bank of America, outlined opportunities to remedy longstanding risk perception issues and working together with banks and investors to build capacity and a better understanding of rating methodologies to address transparency. They further emphasized that while sovereign credit ratings are not the sole determinant of investor decisions, they exert significant influence over borrowing costs, market confidence, and access to capital. "Given the ongoing stress in African governments related to both cost of capital and access to capital it is critical to ensure that credit ratings reflect the many different African contexts. This initiative is an important step in that regard - particularly engaging the credit rating agencies," shared Ms. Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, President and CEO of ACET. 'The Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA) is not being established to issue favourable ratings for African entities, but rather to contribute to a diversity of rating opinions that support more accurate assessments of African sovereigns, corporates, and sub-sovereigns,' expressed Dr. Mutize. 'Our priority is to build a credible, independent, and sustainable institution that plays a vital role in developing domestic debt markets and rebalancing Africa's position within the evolving global financial architecture.' In his closing remarks AfriCatalyst's CEO Dr. Daouda Sembene stressed the urgent need for collaboration among African institutions. 'AfriCatalyst is proud to be at the heart of this critical dialogue, building on the foundation of our Credit Ratings Initiative with UNDP. We are optimistic that through stronger collaboration between African institutions and global rating agencies, we can foster a more accurate, robust, and representative credit rating ecosystem—one that empowers African nations and promotes sustainable growth.' said Daouda. Key messages included the need for: transparent and regular engagement between rating agencies, investors, and African governments; stronger institutional narratives that reflect the continent's resilience and reform efforts; and local capacity-building and collaboration, particularly through the proposed African Credit Rating Agency, which aims to provide credible, contextual alternatives to global ratings. As South Africa chairs the G20 and the African Union assumes permanent membership in 2025, the call for an African-led credit rating solution takes on added urgency. The outcomes of this dialogue will contribute to ongoing efforts to reform the global financial architecture and ensure Africa's capital works better for Africa's development. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AfriCatalyst. Media Contacts: Bineta Pouye bpouye@ Michelle Mendi Muita Ejigayhu Tefera Jean-Marc Kilolo Belinda Ayamgha bayamgha@
