East Africa Forum 2025 to empower women in trade and digital

Nairobi will host regional leaders, innovators, and policymakers for the Accelerate Women East Africa Forum 2025, a two-day gathering on December 10–11, aimed at expanding economic opportunities for women across the region.

Dubbed ‘Unstoppable Woman, Going Beyond Borders,’ the forum seeks to focus on advancing women’s participation in trade, digital innovation, and enterprise development.

It will also provide a platform to address persistent barriers such as limited access to capital, constrained market pathways, and slow adoption of digital tools among women-led businesses.

Accelerate Foundation, the convener, says the forum seeks to give women the visibility, partnerships, and support systems needed to scale their ventures across borders.

Regional and international partners back the initiative, highlighting its role in deepening women’s economic inclusion in East Africa.

This year’s edition will spotlight the policy and market reforms required to unlock broader growth for women entrepreneurs.

Discussions will examine how improved financing models, stronger digital readiness, and expanded regional market access can help women-owned enterprises grow sustainably.

Stakeholders will also push for clear commitments from CEOs, government officials, and industry leaders.

According to Bernice Fernades, CEO of Accelerate Women, the forum will feature women from Kenya, Tanzania, and beyond, including 20 women in manufacturing showcasing their businesses.

The sessions will also provide practical tools, including access to the AfCFTA trade platform, AI, branding, and digital skills to position women for global markets.

Fernades emphasizes that women entrepreneurs are not being upskilled fast enough or given the right structural support.

“There is different access points for women compared to men. Intentional support from both government and the private sector is critical to ensure women have the right financing, growth opportunities, and resources to succeed,” she says.

The 2025 forum is widely seen as a crucial platform to drive coordinated action and measurable progress in women’s trade and digital participation across East Africa.