Abuja: Small agribusinesses in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire are eager to tap into regional markets, but limited digital skills and poor access to online platforms hold them back. Without targeted support, these businesses struggle to embrace e-commerce and expand beyond their local base.
According to African Press Organization, the International Trade Centre has stepped in to address this gap by training national advisors and support institutions to assist agribusinesses in going digital and selling across borders. Many small agribusinesses in West Africa face barriers to reaching broader markets due to poor digital skills, low online visibility, and little access to e-commerce. These challenges hold back their potential to scale and engage in regional trade.
Anuoluwapo Odubanjo, an e-commerce advisor for Nigeria, expressed readiness to support agribusinesses in developing tailored e-commerce strategies, from choosing the right platforms to managing online sales, enabling them to scale up their operations. The training covered digital marketing, online payment systems, shipping logistics, and customer service. Using interactive tools such as real-life case studies and peer learning, the sessions fostered collaboration and built confidence among participants.
The impact is evident: 11 participants reported a significant improvement in their skills, and many left with action plans to support small businesses in their communities. From training rural entrepreneurs to helping businesses list on e-commerce platforms, the new advisors are ready to make a tangible impact.
Since its launch in 2018, the programme has worked to bridge digital gaps and promote trade-ready agribusinesses in West Africa. By investing in local expertise, ITC’s EAT programme is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and digitally connected agricultural economy in West Africa.