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AFEL Economic Impact Challenge
AFEL is a pioneering initiative dedicated to fostering economic literacy and engagement among African youth. Our mission is to bridge the gap between young people and policy-making processes, empowering the next generation of economic leaders across Africa.
Overview of the Challenge
Accelerating Africa’s Economic Development
The AFEL Economic Impact Challenge is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower Africa’s future economic leaders. This program engages youth in developing innovative solutions to key economic challenges facing the continent, with a particular focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and sustainable development.
Our challenge aims to:
- Foster economic literacy among African youth
- Promote grassroots economic advocacy
- Encourage innovative solutions for African economies
- Enhance youth engagement in AfCFTA processes
- Support women and youth in trade initiatives
Focus areas
Focus Areas
Youth-Led Solutions for Economic Growth
Participants are tasked with developing creative approaches to address pressing economic issues. Key themes include:
- Leveraging technology for intra-African trade opportunities
- Designing financial models to support youth entrepreneurship
- Creating sustainable business models aligned with the SDGs
- Developing strategies to maximize AfCFTA benefits for local communities
Policy Advocacy for Development
We emphasize the importance of policy advocacy at the local level. Participants learn to:
- Craft compelling policy briefs
- Engage with local and national policymakers
- Organize community awareness campaigns on economic issues
- Develop strategies for youth inclusion in economic decision-making processes
Past Cohorts
Our challenge has seen remarkable success across different regions of Africa. Recent highlights include:
North-Central Nigeria Cohort (2024)
Top performers driving economic development:
- University of Ilorin
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Abuja
These institutions excelled in both the Advocacy Plan and Implementation category and the Research Paper and Video category.
South-Western Nigeria Cohort (2023)
Key achievements in economic development:
- University of Ibadan: First place in Policy Advocacy and Implementation
- Obafemi Awolowo University: Second place in both categories
- Babcock University and Adekunle Ajasin University: Recognized for innovative solutions
Key findings from these cohorts highlighted the potential of AfCFTA to boost agribusiness SMEs and the importance of digital skills in the new trade era
What We Do
Application Process
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Get Involved
Evaluation Criteria
Projects are judged based on:
Success Stories
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University of Ibadan
The challenge pushed us to think critically about Africa's economic future. Our research on 'The Impact of AfCFTA on the Growth of Agribusiness SMEs in Nigeria' has since been presented at a national economic forum, influencing policy discussions on supporting small-scale farmers.
Obafemi Awolowo University
As a female participant, I found the AFEL challenge incredibly empowering. Our team's focus on women entrepreneurs in cross-border trade highlighted critical issues and potential solutions. This experience has inspired me to pursue a career in trade policy, focusing on gender equality in African economies.
University of Ilorin
APPLY NOW
Ready to be part of the next generation of African economic leaders?
Join us in shaping Africa’s economic future! The AFEL Economic Impact Challenge is more than a competition – it’s a platform for growth, innovation, and real-world impact. Whether you’re passionate about policy advocacy, research, or entrepreneurship, this challenge offers a unique opportunity to contribute to Africa’s economic transformation.
Participating in the AFEL Economic Impact Challenge opened my eyes to the vast opportunities within the AfCFTA. Our team's project on digital solutions for cross-border trade not only won first place but also led to a pilot program in partnership with a local tech startup.