Denmark and TradeMark Africa (TMA) have signed a five-year partnership worth DKK 200 million (USD 30 million) to advance sustainable, efficient and inclusive trade across Africa. The agreement establishes the Sustainable Inclusive Trade in Africa (SITA) programme, a key intervention to support the rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
SITA aims to unlock AfCFTA’s potential to expand regional markets, drive industrial growth, create jobs and reduce poverty by enhancing trade conditions across the continent. It will deliver border-related improvements along the Northern Corridor in East Africa, enabling faster and more predictable goods movement while supporting small informal traders, particularly women and youth, to access markets and increase their income.
Another component of the programme will help transition fresh produce exporters from costly air freight to sea freight. This shift is expected to lower logistics costs, boost competitiveness and contribute to climate-friendly trade in East Africa.
TMA Board Chair and former Ethiopian Prime Minister, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, said the partnership reflects a continued strategic relationship and long-term investment in strengthening African trade systems.
He noted that SITA will reinforce national and regional reforms that support AfCFTA implementation and align with global initiatives such as the EU Global Gateway, adding that the programme will “create an enabling environment for improved trade.”
Danish Ambassador to Kenya Stephan Schønemann said the collaboration marks a move toward deeper economic partnerships that support African-led growth.
“Trade only unlocks its full potential when trade agreements are realised in practice, when borders work, when potentials for greener transport are utilised, and when women and youth can participate in markets on equal terms. With SITA, we are investing in practical solutions,” he said. He added that easing border delays and improving export routes would reduce costs and unlock more opportunities for regional businesses.
Denmark and TMA have partnered since 2010 on initiatives that reduce the time and cost of trade and strengthen regulatory integration. Their earlier work has helped modernise customs, digitise trade processes and enhance standards for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The new agreement builds on these achievements while addressing emerging priorities including greener value chains, deeper regional coordination and inclusive economic participation.
