Young Africans passionate about sustainable development and trade policy now have an exciting opportunity to contribute their ideas to the future of continental trade. The AfCFTA Africa Umoja Campaign, convened by Young African Leadership and Development Agency (YALDA) and partners including African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), International Trade Centre (ITC), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has launched the Sustainable Leap Youth Essay Competition.
The competition invites young Africans to present bold, policy-driven ideas on how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can drive sustainable growth, low-carbon manufacturing, and greener logistics systems across Africa.
About the Competition
As Africa deepens regional integration through the AfCFTA, young thinkers and innovators are being called upon to help shape the continent’s trade policies. This essay competition aims to spotlight youth-led ideas that promote sustainable trade practices, climate-friendly industrialization, and inclusive economic development across African markets.
Participants will have the opportunity to share innovative policy solutions that can help transform the AfCFTA into a powerful driver of Africa’s green economic transition.
Why You Should Apply
This competition is a unique platform for young Africans to influence policy conversations, showcase innovative thinking, and contribute to building a greener trade future for the continent. If you are passionate about sustainable development, economic integration, and climate-smart trade, this is your chance to make your voice heard.
Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit two components as part of their entry:
1. Essay
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A 2,000-word blog-style essay
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Must be well researched and focused on sustainable trade within the AfCFTA framework
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Submit in .docx (Word) format
2. Video Pitch
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A 1-minute (60-second) unedited video
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Should clearly summarize the essay’s key idea and policy recommendation
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Upload the video to a publicly accessible platform (e.g., YouTube private link) and include the link in the submission form.
REGISTER HERE TO APPLY.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate, applicants must:
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Be an African passport holder
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Be between 18 and 35 years old
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Submit both the essay and video pitch before the deadline
Benefits and Prizes
Winners of the competition will receive:
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Continental recognition for their ideas
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High-value career-advancing incentives
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Exclusive invitations to high-level trade and policy events
Additional prize details will be announced by the organizers.
Application Deadline
22 March 2026
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