ICSB & African Union Partner to Empower African MSMEs
April 15, 2025 – In a landmark move to support entrepreneurship and accelerate economic development across the African continent, the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) and the African Union (AU) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on strengthening the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in building a unified front to support African entrepreneurs and create thriving business environments grounded in innovation, collaboration, and access.
A Shared Vision for MSME Growth
The agreement, signed by H.E. Albert M. Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining (ETTIM) of the African Union, and Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, President & CEO of ICSB, reflects a powerful commitment to empowering MSMEs and reducing the barriers they face.
Together, ICSB and the AU will focus on four strategic pillars:
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✅ Building strong entrepreneurial ecosystems that connect entrepreneurs with the tools, mentors, and capital they need to grow
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✅ Reducing bureaucracy—recognized globally as the #1 enemy of MSMEs
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✅ Promoting open trade and innovative business models that make African enterprises more competitive on a global scale
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✅ Supporting digital transformation and improving access to regional and international markets
ICSB’s Global Role
As the founding organization of the United Nations MSMEs Day (June 27), ICSB plays a central role in championing small businesses around the world. Through policy innovation, capacity-building, and global convenings, ICSB fosters environments where MSMEs can thrive.
This new partnership with the African Union further strengthens ICSB’s mission to drive commerce through knowledge sharing and human connection, helping entrepreneurs everywhere overcome obstacles and realize their full potential.
Looking Ahead
This collaboration sets the stage for impactful programs, workshops, and shared research that will bring public and private stakeholders together to bolster entrepreneurial ecosystems across Africa. With the Joint Action Plan guiding implementation, ICSB and the AU are determined to turn vision into measurable outcomes.
Let’s build ecosystems that connect, empower, and elevate MSMEs across Africa and beyond. 🌍
