During the panel discussion on the COYWA Project, the exchanges were rich and insightful. Day 2 of the COYWA Grand Launch has truly been a platform of learning, reflection, and forward-looking dialogue.

Day 2 of the COYWA Grand Launch brought together regional and continental stakeholders to discuss aligning with Agenda 2063, addressing informal sector barriers, strengthening digital literacy, developing key value chains, and improving access to finance. Discussions produced recommendations under four strategic pillars: strengthening policy and partnerships; scaling incubation models through mentorship, digital skills, and innovation; expanding access to finance through flexible and inclusive financing solutions; and establishing market linkages through B2B connections, trade fairs, and digital platforms. These recommendations provide a roadmap for positioning COYWA as a catalyst for sustainable economic transformation, with women and youth recognized as key drivers of Africa’s economic future.

COMFWB officially launched the Creating Opportunities for Youth and Women in Africa (COYWA) initiative on 20 October 2026 in Harare, Zimbabwe, with support from AECID and AUDA-NEPAD. The initiative aims to empower women and youth entrepreneurs through business incubation, digital and financial literacy, mentorship, access to funding, and market linkages, enabling them to grow their enterprises, create decent jobs, and participate in continental value chains. The launch was endorsed by key regional and international leaders, reinforcing the vision of “One Market, One Future.”

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Ms. Leila Belkhiria Jaber, President of CNFCE and President of COMFWB Tunisia, welcomed Mr. Hermogene Nsengimana, Secretary-General of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO), at UTICA headquarters.This meeting reflects a shared commitment to strengthening intra-African trade and empowering women entrepreneurs across the continent.‍Key Discussion Topics:———————-Presentation of national and regional structures under UTICA and CNFCE.-The vital role of standardisation in facilitating seamless trade across Africa.-Assessment of trade relations between Tunisia and other African nations.-Growth prospects under the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) to access new regional markets.-Empowering Women in Intra-African Trade

October 6 2026 — Under the leadership of President Leila Belkhiria Jaber, the National Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CNFCE) reaffirmed its dedication to preparing Tunisian women entrepreneurs to access high-potential African export markets during the launch of the AfCFTA SME Booster Program.‍ Building on institutional progress since 2020 alongside the Ministry of Commerce, the CNFCE has strategically enhanced its operational expertise in regional markets through continuous collaboration with COMESA and COMFWB.

From October 4 to 9, 2026, Prague is hosting the 73rd World Congress of FCEM (Femmes Chefs d'Entreprises Mondiales) centered on the theme: "Small Country. Big Impact. Women Shaping the Future."Representing the "Groupement des Femmes Entrepreneurs de Madagascar" (GFEM) among more than 500 global business leaders is a distinguished four-member delegation:Ms. Fanja Razakaboana, National President of GFEMMs. Sophie Andrianisa, Vice President of GFEMMs. Tantely Rakotomalala, President of the FEA Regional BranchMs. Sitraka Rakotohasimbola, Member of the FEA Regional BranchThrough this strategic global presence, GFEM continues to bridge Malagasy women entrepreneurs with international economic networks, forge high-impact partnerships, and champion the leadership and vision of Madagascar’s female business community.