South Africa serves as the representative of the African continent within BRICS – a platform that unites three continents – Eurasia, Africa, and South America, encompassing over 40% of the world’s population. Over the past 15 years, BRICS cooperation has made significant progress and expanded its mandate beyond its initial focus. Today, political and security, economic and financial, and social and people-to-people cooperation are the three pillars that drive BRICS’ mission.
The BRICS-AFRICA WBA Trade Conference will take place on August, 20-21, 2023 in Durban, Kwa Zulu Natal Province, South Africa. It is a unique event that brings together 500 women-owned businesses (including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises) from 18 different countries, namely South Africa, Brazil, Russia, India, China, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Rwanda, Zambia, DRC, Egypt, Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and Lesotho.
The Conference is set to be a groundbreaking event,
featuring several highlights:
Launch of the Agrowex e-commerce platform
Panel discussions
Topic 1: «Transforming Global Challenges into Opportunities: Driving Inclusive Growth»
Topic 2: «Digital Transformation for Gender Equity: Unveiling Opportunities and Overcoming challenges»
Unveiling of the BRICS Mobility Center
Signing ceremony for concluded trade, investment, and capacity-building deals secured between South African businesses and each of the BRICS countries
Gala dinner in honour of BRICS and African women uniting through trade and investment
Signing of eThekwini BRICS Women Development Declaration
In addition to the main Conference programme, all the delegates will have ample opportunities to network and collaborate, with an exhibition area showcasing various industries, such as agriculture technologies, handicrafts, African fabrics, and creative works of art.
Expected outcomes of the Conference
Increased awareness and understanding of the economic potential of Africa, and how the BRICS nations can contribute to its development.
Solidify and commemorate trade, investment and capacity building partnerships between the BRICS nations and Africa, with a specific emphasis on critical sectors such as agriculture, e-commerce, digital economy, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure
Stimulating complementarity in multilateralism and cooperation within BRICS and African trading system
Fostering increased cooperation and collaboration between the BRICS nations and Africa, by sharing knowledge, experience, and best practices in trade and investment
Celebrating the rich culture and heritage of both the BRICS and African nations
In 2023, the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance will mark its third anniversary, dedicated to promoting women’s participation as key drivers of economic growth. The Alliance aims to unleash the full potential of women in business, empowering women economically throughout BRICS and African nations.