Calling all young African innovators to share their reflections on how continental trade can drive sustainable, green growth by exploring opportunities in low-carbon manufacturing, green logistics, and sustainable services, as part of the AfCFTA Africa Umoja Campaign.

The AfCFTA Africa Umoja Campaign is powered by a strategic partnership between the Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA), Afrexim Bank, the AfCFTA Secretariat, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The campaign aims to actively engage youth in advancing Agenda 2063 and strengthening understanding of the AfCFTA across the continent. 

Theme: AfCFTA and the Green Leap: Youth-Led Opportunities in Low-Carbon Trade

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold a valid passport of an African Union Member State and be between the ages of 18 to 35.

Submission Details

Visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScQif-y2fm0Qkir5Gpqsw14us9mZJ49rjIjHuk-HSgIhWGSdg/viewform

Deadline: 20 February 2026

What to Submit

1. Essay (Required) 

All essays must follow a non-academic and blog-style with a 2000-word limit. Essays must also be submitted in English and written in an accessible and engaging style for a general youth audience. 

2. Video Pitch (Required)

Participants are also expected to submit a 5-minute unedited video pitch of their proposed idea. 

Video Instructions:

• Record in landscape (widescreen) mode.
• Introduce yourself (name, nationality, and age).
• Pitch your solution for Africa’s sustainable trade future and the impact it can deliver!

Why participate

This is your chance to influence policy makers, gain continental recognition and win exclusive event invitations and visibility across partners’ official platforms. 

Assessment Criteria

Submissions will be assessed based on the quality of writing, accuracy and authenticity, policy relevance and insight, innovation and practicality, and accessibility for a youth audience. 

Best of luck with your submissions!

Convening Partner: Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA)

Co-Convenors: AfCFTA Secretariat, International Trade Centre (ITC), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank)

About the Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA)

Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA) is a non-profit international network that empowers young Africans to lead positive change in their communities. With branches primarily based in African universities, YALDA builds youth capacity through leadership development, access to information and opportunities, and collaboration with professionals and institutions. The platform helps young people connect, share ideas, and turn solutions into projects that create measurable social impact. Through networking, mentorship, and partnerships, YALDA contributes to a new generation of leaders equipped to advance Africa’s development priorities.

Learn more at https://www.yaldafrica.org 

About the United Nations Development Programme

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

Learn more at www.undp.org/africa

For more information, please contact: 

• Nozipho Hlophe, Regional Trade Analyst, UNDP Regional Service Centre for Africa | nozipho.hlophe1@undp.org 
• Milzat Salime, AfYWL (AfCFTA), UNDP Regional Service Centre for Africa | milzat.salime@undp.org