Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – May 9, 2025 – The 6th COMESA Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB) Trade Fair and Business Conference on may 7 in Addis Ababa, bringing together over 250 women entrepreneurs, policymakers, and diplomats to promote gender-inclusive trade and economic growth across the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) region.
The three-day event, held from May 7-9, 2025, was officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Tagesse Chafo, Speaker of Ethiopia’s House of People’s Representatives, alongside COMESA Secretary General H.E. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe and COMFWB Chairperson Ms. Maureen Sumbu.
A Call for Collective Action
In their opening remarks, the speakers underscored the critical role of women in driving regional trade and economic development, describing them as the “silent engines” of the COMESA economy. Despite their contributions, women entrepreneurs continue to face structural barriers, including limited access to finance, markets, and trade networks.
H.E. Tagesse Chafo emphasized that “gender equality is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity,”urging governments and private sector stakeholders to collaborate in dismantling systemic obstacles.
COMESA Secretary General Kapwepwe echoed this sentiment, stating, “When women thrive, economies thrive. This Trade Fair is more than an exhibition it is a movement towards inclusive and sustainable trade.”
A Platform for Trade and Transformation
The COMFWB Trade Fair serves as a vital marketplace for women-led businesses to showcase products, forge partnerships, and access new markets. Alongside the exhibition, the conference features high-level panel discussions, capacity-building workshops, and networking sessions aimed at equipping women entrepreneurs with the tools to scale their enterprises.
Ms. Maureen Sumbu, COMFWB Chairperson, highlighted the event’s dual purpose: “We are here not only to celebrate the achievements of women in business but also to demand greater investment in their potential. The future of intra-COMESA trade depends on our ability to empower women and youth.”
Looking Ahead
As the conference progresses, key outcomes are expected to include policy recommendations for enhancing women’s participation in cross-border trade, innovative financing solutions, and strengthened regional partnerships. The event reaffirms COMESA’s commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)by ensuring that women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of Africa’s economic integration.
The 6th COMFWB Trade Fair stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of women in business, while serving as a clarion call for systemic change to unlock their full economic potential.
Emebet Asefa , Correspondent Addis Ababa , Ethiopia
