Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access & Affordable Financing

 (Abuja, 23–27 June 2025)

The 4th African Union MSME Forum, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Nigeria, marked a milestone in Africa’s collective journey toward economic self-reliance, job creation, and inclusive growth. The Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, in partnership with the African Union Commission, Development Finance Institutions, and the private sector, coordinated this continental effort to harmonize policy, financing, and digital innovation for the MSME ecosystem.

The forum started with a high level opening ceremony Hosted by His Excellency the Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima GCON, at the State House Banquet Hall Presidential Villa, kicking off activities for the week. Key activities held during the week include; High-level paper presentations, Panel discussions and Fireside Chats, Tech Showcase, Product Activations, Exhibitions from MSMEs across Africa, B2B networking sessions, Presentation of awards to outstanding Nigerian entrepreneurs.

The Forum reaffirmed that Africa’s prosperity is inseparable from the strength of its MSME ecosystem. Over 1,200 delegates from 42 African countries participated, including policymakers, DFIs, development partners, and MSME representatives. The Forum’s theme, “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access & Affordable Financing for Africa”, captured the urgency of establishing MSMEs as growth drivers in the digital age.

Leaders agreed on three foundational pillars:
1. Digital Transformation and Innovation
2. Access to Affordable and Inclusive Finance
3. Regional Market Access and Trade Integration

Participants also underscored the importance of intellectual property (IP) protection, institutional collaboration, and the inclusion of youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

The Forum concluded with the 12‑Month MSME Acceleration Package (MAP‑12), endorsed by the AUC and the Federal Government of Nigeria, as a blueprint for scaling sustainable, digitally enabled, and financially inclusive MSMEs across Africa.