On 9 December 2016, Prof Wilma Viviers and Ms Ali Parry participated in a workshop in Johannesburg titled 'Harnessing Gender for Inclusive Trade', which was hosted by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) and the University of Adelaide's Institute for International Trade (IIT). The workshop provided a platform for trade and gender experts from across Africa and representatives of international organisations, including the World Bank, to debate the gender gap phenomenon on the continent and how it impacts countries’ economic and trade performance.

Informal cross-border trade (ICBT) was a key focus area at the workshop, with many delegates commenting on the risks inherent in this type of business – particularly for women. Also highlighted were the challenges associated with the textiles/clothing and agricultural sectors (both major employers of women in Africa). There was general consensus that economic, industrial, labour and trade policies in Africa need to be more gender-sensitive and should be accompanied by realistic and measurable action plans to improve their chances of being implemented. 

A summary of the workshop proceedings can be found here.