IGAD Regional Training of Trainers: Empowering Gender Champions in Digital Trade
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is offering a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs and leaders across East Africa. Through its Horn of Africa Digital Market Integration (HDMI) Project, IGAD is hosting a Regional Training of Trainers (ToTs) focused on Gender-Sensitive Digital Trade. This intensive program, utilizing the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) methodology, aims to build a network of skilled individuals who can foster more inclusive digital trade ecosystems. Scheduled for July 6-8, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya, this initiative is a key step in advancing economic growth and gender equality within the region.
The training is particularly relevant as digital transformation and cross-border trade become increasingly central to Africa’s economic future. It addresses the persistent barriers faced by women and youth entrepreneurs in accessing digital technologies, financial services, and markets. By equipping participants to become “Gender Champions,” the program seeks to create a ripple effect, enabling more women and youth-led businesses to thrive in the digital economy.
About the IGAD HDMI Project
The Horn of Africa Digital Market Integration (HDMI) Project is a multinational effort by IGAD to boost economic integration. It operates in Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan, with the goal of unlocking digital market opportunities, supporting e-commerce, expanding digital finance, and promoting digital entrepreneurship. This project aligns with major frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and IGAD Vision 2050, aiming to increase youth employment, promote women’s businesses, and facilitate trade.
Addressing Barriers in Digital Trade
Despite the rise of digital technologies, many entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, face significant hurdles. These include limited access to digital tools and services, low participation in e-commerce, and restricted market access. Socio-cultural factors and gaps in digital literacy also play a role. This training directly confronts these issues by providing practical skills and a framework for mentorship, helping to bridge the digital divide and ensure more equitable participation in the digital economy.
The Gender Action Learning System (GALS)
The Gender Action Learning System (GALS) is a community-driven approach designed to tackle gender inequalities and promote inclusive economic participation. In this training, GALS will be used to help participants understand and overcome socio-cultural barriers that affect digital trade. The methodology provides practical tools for promoting gender equity, improving women’s market access, and building inclusive business environments. Participants will learn how to apply GALS in their roles as trainers and mentors.
Objectives of the Regional Training
The primary goal of this training is to strengthen the regional ecosystem for inclusive digital trade and entrepreneurship. Key objectives include:
Building Capacity of Gender Champions
The program will train 21 Gender Champions from IGAD Member States. They will gain expertise in gender-responsive digital trade, e-commerce, digital entrepreneurship, and inclusive market participation.
Strengthening Practical Mentorship Skills
Participants will develop essential skills in facilitation, mentoring techniques, and the practical application of the GALS methodology. They will also learn strategies for effective community engagement.
Promoting Women and Youth MSMEs
A core aim is to increase access to digital markets, financial inclusion, e-commerce participation, and cross-border trade for women and youth-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Expanding Knowledge on Digital Financial Systems
The training will enhance participants’ understanding of digital payment systems, e-commerce tools, online business ecosystems, and relevant digital trade regulations.
Training Structure and Format
The program is structured in two phases to maximize learning and impact.
Phase 1: Intensive In-Person Regional Workshop
This phase involves a three-day residential workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, from July 6-8, 2026. It will feature practical exercises, interactive learning, hands-on facilitation training, and group collaboration to prepare participants for their roles as trainers.
Phase 2: Online Follow-Up Sessions
Following the in-person workshop, participants will engage in online learning sessions. These will include knowledge-sharing discussions, continued mentorship support, and digital networking activities, facilitated through IGAD’s social platforms.
Important Training Rules
This is a highly intensive Training of Trainers program. Participants are expected to attend all sessions fully, participate actively, and commit completely throughout the duration. To ensure full concentration, the use of mobile phones during sessions will not be permitted.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected participants will receive several valuable benefits:
Recognition as Regional Gender Champions
Upon completion, participants will be officially recognized as Gender Champions within the IGAD regional network.
Regional Networking Opportunities
The program offers a chance to connect with entrepreneurs, policy experts, gender advocates, digital trade specialists, and MSME leaders from across East Africa.
Advanced Skills in Digital Trade
Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of e-commerce, digital market access, financial inclusion, and cross-border digital trade practices.
Mentorship and Facilitation Skills
The training will equip participants with the necessary skills to effectively train others, facilitate workshops, mentor entrepreneurs, and support MSMEs.
Exposure to Regional Economic Integration
Participants will deepen their understanding of AfCFTA opportunities, regional trade systems, and the dynamics of digital economic ecosystems.
IGAD-Covered Training Costs
IGAD will cover training-related costs for selected participants, in line with organizational policies.
Expected Responsibilities After Training
After completing the program, participants are expected to contribute to regional development. This includes conducting in-country trainings, mentoring women and youth MSMEs, supporting financial inclusion initiatives, promoting digital entrepreneurship, and expanding inclusive digital trade participation. These responsibilities are key to ensuring the program’s long-term impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this training, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality
Applicants must be nationals of an IGAD Member State.
Business Requirement
Applicants should be actively running an MSME with potential for digital or cross-border trade.
Documentation
A valid business license is required.
Educational Qualification
A minimum of a certificate of secondary education is necessary.
Experience and Interest
Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in digital trade, experience in entrepreneurship or e-commerce, and a commitment to gender equality.
Mentorship Commitment
Participants must be willing to train and mentor others following the program.
Eligible IGAD Member States
The opportunity is open to nationals from the following IGAD Member States: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, and Eritrea.
Required Application Documents
Interested applicants must submit:
- A completed online application form.
- A copy of their business license.
- A motivation statement (maximum 300 words) explaining their suitability, interest in digital trade, and commitment to women and youth empowerment.
- A short business description (maximum 100 words).
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is June 5, 2026. Early applications are strongly encouraged, as only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official IGAD application portal at https://igad.int/hdmicallforapplication/.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
This program is unique because it integrates digital trade, gender inclusion, regional integration, entrepreneurship, and mentorship. Unlike many general entrepreneurship programs, this initiative focuses on developing regional trainers and ecosystem leaders who can multiply their impact across East Africa. Participants will not only gain personal skills but also become agents of change, driving inclusive economic transformation within their communities and countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the IGAD Regional Training of Trainers?
The main goal is to build a network of skilled individuals who can promote more inclusive digital trade ecosystems by training them as ‘Gender Champions’.
Who is eligible to apply for this training?
Eligibility includes being a national of an IGAD Member State, running an MSME with digital trade potential, holding a business license, having at least a secondary education, and showing commitment to mentorship and gender equality.
What is the Gender Action Learning System (GALS)?
GALS is a community-driven approach used in the training to help participants understand and overcome socio-cultural barriers affecting digital trade and promote gender equity.
What are the key responsibilities for participants after the training?
After the training, participants are expected to conduct in-country trainings, mentor women and youth MSMEs, support financial inclusion, and promote digital entrepreneurship.
