Logistics experts have urged African female entrepreneurs to prioritize sustainability to remain competitive in the face of evolving global market dynamics. At the maiden edition of the African Women Sustainability Conference, held in Abuja, speakers emphasized the critical need for African businesses to embrace green practices to ensure long-term success.
The conference, themed “Igniting Africa’s Green Revolution: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs as a Catalyst for Sustainable Growth and Unlocking Access to Eco-financing,” brought together over 1,400 female entrepreneurs from across the continent.
Efe Ukala, founder of ImpactHER, highlighted the urgency of adopting sustainable practices, stating, “We must chart a new course; we must think sustainably, whilst pursuing growth, this approach will afford the African development story a new pathway to prosperity that will allow us to leapfrog certain challenges and accelerate our advancement.”
Ukala emphasized the increasing importance of environmental regulations in international markets. The European Union Deforestation Regulation, which came into force in June 2023, requires strict certification that products are deforestation-free before entering the EU market. This directly impacts key African exports, including cocoa, coffee, and palm oil.
Furthermore, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, set to commence in 2026, will require carbon emissions reporting for industrial exports such as steel and cement.
“For African businesses, especially our women entrepreneurs, these aren’t just regulations; they represent a fundamental shift in market access,” Ukala stated. “Meeting these new standards isn’t optional—it’s essential for maintaining and growing our share of this crucial market.”
The conference underscored the importance of equipping African female entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to embrace sustainable practices and navigate the evolving global market.
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