About AAICE

Throughout the world, but particularly in developing African countries, entrepreneurship, and rural entrepreneurship in particular, is increasingly being recognized as a key element for economic development and poverty alleviation. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa’s youth unemployment rate is among the highest globally, with over 20% of young people unable to find meaningful employment. Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the continent over the next five decades, emphasizes the need for inclusive growth and sustainable development. It recognizes that entrepreneurship, education, and innovation are pivotal in realizing Africa’s aspirations for economic prosperity and social well-being. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights the importance of agriculture and agribusiness as key sectors for job creation and economic growth in Africa. Education continues to play an important role in the transformation of knowledge into marketable products and services.
AfCFTA a flagship programme of the African Union which will boost intra-African trade across the 55 African countries. The free-trade area is estimated to have a population of about 1.2 billion people, and a gross domestic product (GDP) of $2.5 trillion, across all 55 member States of the African Union (AU)
This is an enormous opportunity for new and existing businesses to innovate and develop new products, technologies, solutions, and services to meet the projected demand. This will lead to more jobs, enterprises, employment, and wealth creation. However, for this to happen, the right instruments, policies, infrastructure, and investment are needed. The 9th AAICE aligns with the broad African Union comprehensive plan for education in Africa which is an opportunity to advocate for the quality and transformative education.