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About Us
Sokokuu Africa is the African continental digital marketplace (e-commerce platform) specifically designed to empower African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), youth, and women entrepreneurs. Its central aim is to promote “Made-in-Africa” products and significantly increase intra-African trade, thereby serving as a practical tool for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The name itself, “Sokokuu”, is a Kiswahili word that translates to “common market” or “central market,” perfectly encapsulating its ambitious goal of creating a unified digital trading space for the continent. The platform operates as a key subsidiary of the AeTrade Group and is headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda, positioning it strategically within the hub of African economic integration efforts.
Our Mission
Sokokuu’s mission is comprehensive: to provide an all-encompassing e-commerce ecosystem that supports African businesses regardless of their size. This support includes offering access to new markets, facilitating affordable funding opportunities, and providing essential training in digital trade skills.
Our Unique Approach
The platform distinguishes itself from conventional e-commerce sites by offering a multi-faceted approach to business development:
- Market Access: Sokokuu creates a robust digital space connecting a diverse range of producers—from SMEs and farmers to artisans—with customers across the continent and around the world, opening up opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
- Capacity Building: Through initiatives like the “Changing The Mindset” program, Sokokuu delivers targeted training to enhance digital literacy, entrepreneurial expertise, productivity, and overall competitiveness of African businesses in the global market.
- Financial Inclusion: A critical aspect of Sokokuu’s operation involves connecting entrepreneurs with funding opportunities and providing seamless, instant payment solutions—addressing a major barrier to growth for many small businesses.
- Logistics and Integration: Sokokuu integrates logistics and payment systems to streamline trade across borders and minimize the complexities often associated with intra-African commerce.
Partnerships and Collaboration
The initiative is built on a foundation of strong partnerships with key continental and international organizations, including the African Union (AU) Commission, COMESA, the Mastercard Foundation, and various national governments and trade bodies. These collaborations enhance the platform’s reach, credibility, and ability to drive meaningful impact.
Driving Africa’s Digital Transformation
By leveraging information and communication technologies (ICTs) to digitize trade processes and minimize physical trade barriers, Sokokuu aims to be a powerful catalyst for economic development and job creation. It is designed to accelerate opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs, aligning with Africa’s broader goals of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Our Vision for the Future
Ultimately, Sokokuu Africa is a forward-thinking initiative poised to transform how Africa trades with itself and the world — driving regional integration, empowering entrepreneurs, and fostering economic prosperity across the continent.
