From Margins to Markets

Indigenous Youth Engagement in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

AIRKN Youth Forum Webinar Series 2026

Thursday, September 17, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM GMT | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM EAT
Online via Zoom

About the Event

The AIRKN Youth Forum Webinar Series brings attention to the experiences, opportunities, and contributions of Indigenous youth within Africa’s evolving economic landscape.

This session, “From Margins to Markets,” explores how Indigenous youth can move from the margins to the heart of Africa’s trade and economic opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The African Continental Free Trade Area presents opportunities for greater economic participation and cross-border trade across the continent. However, meaningful participation requires addressing the barriers that Indigenous youth face when accessing markets and engaging with existing economic systems.

This webinar creates a space to explore these opportunities, discuss challenges, and consider the policy changes needed to support more inclusive and sustainable participation in African and cross-border trade.

What We’ll Discuss

Opportunities Under AfCFTA

Explore the economic and trade opportunities available to Indigenous youth through the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Access to Markets

Examine the barriers that may prevent Indigenous youth from accessing markets and participating effectively in African and cross-border trade.

Youth Participation in Policymaking

Highlight the importance of Indigenous youth voices in shaping conversations, policies, and decisions around trade and economic development.

Building an Inclusive African Market

Discuss how greater inclusion and participation can contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable African market.

Why This Conversation Matters

Indigenous youth have an important role to play in Africa’s economic future. Creating meaningful opportunities for their participation in trade requires more than opening markets. It also requires understanding the barriers they face and ensuring that their voices are part of the policy conversations shaping Africa’s economic development.

This webinar provides an opportunity for participants to learn, exchange perspectives, and engage in a conversation about creating pathways for Indigenous youth to participate more meaningfully in Africa’s growing trade environment.

Meet the Speakers

Emolot Allan David

Chairperson, Independent Continental Youth Advisory Council on AfCFTA

Mr. Hosi Khosa

PhD Candidate, International Relations, University of Pretoria

Khadija Ahamal

Moderator
AIRKN Youth Forum, Northern Africa Coordinator

Who Should Attend?

This webinar is open to individuals interested in Indigenous knowledge, youth development, African trade, economic participation, and policymaking.

It is particularly relevant to:

• Indigenous youth and young professionals
• Entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs
• Researchers and academics
• Policymakers and development practitioners
• Community leaders
• Individuals interested in AfCFTA and African trade
• Anyone interested in Indigenous youth participation in economic development