Innovative African Developers Tackle Critical Challenges in AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol Hackathon to Shape the Continent’s E-Commerce Future

Africa is on the brink of a digital transformation, and the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol Hackathon is set to be a key catalyst.

This exciting three-day event brings together innovative minds from across the continent to work on solving some of the most pressing challenges in Africa’s cross-border commerce.

If you’re a developer, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast with a passion for making a real impact, this is your chance to be part of Africa’s digital future.

What’s the Hackathon All About?

The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol Hackathon is more than just a competition.

It’s a platform for forward-thinking individuals and teams to collaborate and create practical solutions that will shape the future of Africa’s digital trade ecosystem.

With a focus on e-commerce, digital payments, logistics, and digital identity management, the event aims to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible digital economy.

The hackathon’s goal is to foster creativity and teamwork in addressing the challenges that currently hinder Africa’s digital trade growth.

By solving these issues, participants will help create a more efficient and connected digital marketplace that benefits businesses, consumers, and governments alike.

Key Challenges for Participants

Participants in the hackathon will work to tackle seven critical challenges that affect Africa’s digital trade and cross-border commerce.

These challenges are not just theoretical but real-world problems that need innovative solutions:

1. E-Commerce Policy & Trust
   Simplify digital trade rules and build trust to enhance cross-border e-commerce across Africa.

2. Connectivity Access
   Improve internet accessibility in remote regions to ensure everyone can participate in the digital economy.

3. Digital Payments
   Develop secure, fast, and inclusive payment systems, particularly for the unbanked population.

4. Logistics & Delivery
   Address infrastructure gaps that hinder efficient cross-border e-commerce deliveries.

5. Youth & MSME Inclusion
   Empower young people and small businesses with digital skills and resources to help them succeed.

6. E-Commerce Adoption
   Increase consumer and business trust in online shopping platforms to drive greater adoption.

7. Global Expansion
   Create tools to help African businesses expand globally by improving export capabilities and digital branding.

Who Can Participate?

This hackathon is open to all African innovators, including developers, startups, students, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs.

If you’re between the ages of 18 and 45 and of African origin, you’re eligible to apply.

You can participate individually or as part of a team (up to 5 members).

So, whether you’re a solo creator or have a group of like-minded individuals, there’s a place for you in this challenge.

Beyond the Competition: What’s in It for You?

Winning the hackathon is just the beginning. Finalists will be given the tools and support to take their solutions to the next level:

• Expert Mentorship
  Receive personalized guidance from industry leaders, trade experts, and tech mentors who will help you refine your project.

• Incubation Opportunities
  Get fast-tracked into incubation programs that will help scale your solution beyond the hackathon.

• Piloting and Implementation
  Winning projects may be piloted in real-world settings under the AfCFTA digital trade agenda, offering a chance to see your ideas come to life.

• Funding & Investor Access
  Connect with angel investors, venture capitalists, and innovation funds eager to support promising projects.

• Visibility & Recognition
  Showcase your project at regional innovation events and gain recognition both across Africa and globally.

Prize Categories

There are several categories where your solution could stand out, including:

• Best Overall Solution
  For the most comprehensive and scalable digital trade innovation.

• Most Innovative Solution
  For out-of-the-box thinking that redefines the possibilities of digital trade.

• Best Regulatory Compliance Solution
  For solutions that navigate trade and data regulations with excellence.

• Best Logistics Solution
  For groundbreaking ideas that improve cross-border delivery and fulfillment.

Grand Prize Pool: ₦20 Million

This is a chance to not only contribute to Africa’s digital trade future but also to win significant prizes that could support the further development of your solution.

The deadline for applications is April 30, 2025, so make sure to register before time runs out.

If you think you have what it takes to tackle the challenges facing Africa’s digital economy, click here to apply and start your journey towards making an impactful difference!