Women and Trade Networks in West Africa
Women make a significant contribution to West Africa's food economy, perpetuating
a long tradition of commerce and participating in cross-border trade and regional
outreach. Their activities face numerous obstacles but also present important opportunities,
highlighted in this report through an unprecedented relational and spatial analysis
of social networks. The study focuses on the rice sector in the Dendi region (Benin,
Niger and Nigeria) and on the regional governance networks that support women's entrepreneurship.
It confirms that Nigeria occupies a privileged position due to its demographics and
growing urbanisation. The report proposes the development of innovative public policies
based on the reinforcement of the social capital of women and policy approaches that
promote better integration of the initiatives undertaken by governments, international
and non-governmental organisations to empower women and strengthen their resilience.
Published on April 04, 2019Also available in: French
In series:West African Studiesview more titles