AfCFTA takes shape as farmers, commodity aggregators join cooperative initiatives

From Okwe Obi, Abuja

Following the introduction of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), farmers and commodity aggregators, among others, have been targeted as primary beneficiaries of trade expansion across the continent.

The President and Chief Vision Officer of Maistrade Multipurpose Cooperative Federation Limited, Benjamin Okei Aduli, explained in a statement that the initiative will also lead to the expansion of digital trade infrastructure, cooperative development frameworks, and cross-border settlement innovations, including alignment with the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).

Aduli said: “Chii.africa, the Pan-African Trade Intelligence and Coordination Platform, Zimo Clan, and Maistrade Multipurpose Cooperative Federation Limited are pleased to announce a strategic integration initiative designed to strengthen cooperative participation, digital commerce, trade traceability, and cross-border market access across Africa.

“The collaboration unites Chii.africa’s intelligence infrastructure and trade coordination capabilities, the community and network strengths of the Zimo Clan platform, and the cooperative development expertise of Maistrade to support farmers, traders, cooperatives, SMEs, commodity aggregators, and entrepreneurs seeking structured participation in Africa’s evolving trade and digital economy.

“Africa’s future will be shaped by trusted trade networks, interoperable digital infrastructure, and empowered communities. This collaboration brings together intelligence, cooperation, and commerce to create practical pathways for African producers, traders, and SMEs to participate in the continent’s emerging economic future.”

A representative of Chii.africa, Tauya Langton Makoni, noted that the future of African trade is not simply digital but intelligent, traceable, interoperable, and community-centred.

Makoni added that through the partnership, “we are building the connective tissue that allows African communities to trade, collaborate, and prosper together.”

He added that “the ecosystem is designed to create practical opportunities for farmers — access to aggregation networks, market visibility, and verified trade opportunities enhanced by intelligent matching and insights.

“Traders — participation in structured and traceable value chains with improved market access and coordination intelligence.

“Digital tools for member management, trade participation, savings coordination, and economic empowerment supported by data-driven governance.”