The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services (CCIS) of the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra Region, in partnership with the Association of Professionals for the Promotion of Women’s Entrepreneurship (APPEF Morocco), organized a round table under the theme: “Entrepreneurship in Africa and Living Well Together.” The event was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., at the CCIS headquarters.

Diplomats, institutional leaders, representatives of associations, economic actors, and young entrepreneurs discussed the dynamics of entrepreneurship in Africa and its impact on socio-economic development and social cohesion. The discussion focused in particular on opportunities and challenges related to the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), the role of women in entrepreneurship, and potential pathways to facilitate long-term partnerships and sustainable inclusive development.

CAFRAD took part in this important regional meeting as a pan-African institution comprising 45 member states. It contributed by presenting the institution itself, along with its African perspective on the new dynamic of cross-border cooperation, and the mechanisms that need to be strengthened to foster sustainable, inclusive development based on intercultural dialogue.

Train, Support, Transform: CAFRAD’s Role in Africa’s Economic Development

In his address, the Director General of CAFRAD outlined the institution’s mission and its importance as a hub of cooperation between countries working toward Africa’s transformation, based on two key pillars: training and research.

“Today, CAFRAD has positioned itself as a center of excellence for Africa’s holistic transformation—integrating digital and ecological transitions, the introduction of artificial intelligence, South-South cooperation, public governance, and all themes related to public action.”

In this context, CAFRAD works to develop an emerging African management model. It supports project leaders in drafting their business plans and trains them in leadership, management, and social and societal responsibility. The center also assists policymakers in designing entrepreneurial development policies, while supporting regional initiatives such as economic negotiations, AfCFTA, and actions promoting the inclusion of youth and women. The goal is to foster the emergence of sustainable, fair, and ethical trade to benefit the Global South.

The importance of economic diplomacy and international cooperation as levers to support African entrepreneurship was also highlighted. In this regard, several prominent speakers shared their expertise and experiences on how these dimensions can contribute to a harmonious “living together” across the African continent.

In his remarks, the Director General of CAFRAD emphasized the role of diplomacy in building an African economy capable of withstanding geopolitical uncertainties and globalization:

“CAFRAD’s goal is to help establish major African economic and commercial groups that can interact globally and survive in the face of globalization. The aim is to build viable and efficient African corporations that will contribute to Africa’s development. To do so, it is equally important to highlight the essential role of diplomacy. Influence diplomacy will allow us to co-create innovative partnerships that go beyond traditional legal frameworks—inter-enterprise partnerships, between non-state actors, both African and non-African.”

This event is part of a broader effort to promote entrepreneurship as a vector for peace, solidarity, and shared prosperity in Africa.

CAFRAD is now emerging as a key support mechanism for African private sector actors in their drive to transform the continent.