The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) launched a call for applications for in-country training and mentorship focused on gender-sensitive digital trade, targeting women and youth micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across IGAD Member States. Running from July to December 2026, the initiative aims to build capacity and bridge digital divides in the region.
HDMI Project Background and Regional Integration Goals
According to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the training program operates under the Horn of Africa Digital Market Integration (HDMI) Project Phase I. This multinational intervention falls within the Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration Division (ECRID) of the IGAD Secretariat. The Project Implementation Unit (PIU), located in Djibouti, oversees execution across target countries including Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan.
The first phase of the HDMI project seeks to strengthen economic integration across the IGAD region by unlocking market opportunities and building a single digital market. Regional policy frameworks, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), IGAD Vision 2050, and the validated IGAD strategy for 2026-2030, support these objectives. By implementing secure digital trade and e-commerce enablers, the project addresses gaps in cybersecurity, data protection, and digital transactions to facilitate cross-border trade.
GALS Methodology and Training Structure
To tackle persistent gender inequalities that limit women’s access to digital technologies and financial services, the program utilizes the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) methodology. According to IGAD project documentation, the initiative begins with a train-the-trainer workshop for Gender Champions from member states. These champions then lead in-country training sessions designed to empower women and youth MSMEs.
The training follows a hybrid format. It opens with an in-person, three-day workshop delivered locally by trained Gender Champions to provide hands-on experience and immediate feedback. Following the in-person sessions, participants transition to follow-up online mentorship and training modules.
Curriculum Focus Areas for MSMEs
The curriculum concentrates on practical digital tools and commercial strategies to help businesses scale. Key areas of instruction include:
- Digital financial services and mobile money platforms
- E-commerce opportunities and digital marketing
- Financial literacy and safe navigation of digital spaces
- Cross-border digital trade procedures
These mentorship programs provide participants with timely market information and improved access to digital financial services. Ultimately, the initiative prepares local enterprises to tap into broader markets enabled by the AfCFTA and regional digital integration frameworks.
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