In Africa’s evolving economic landscape, the service sector emerges as a crucial component. It not only contributes significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of many African nations but also employs a large portion of the workforce. The dynamism within sectors such as financial services, ICT, tourism, and healthcare demonstrates the transformative potential of services in driving sustainable development.

However, the advantages of trade and economic integration do not inherently benefit all genders equally. Integrating a gender perspective into trade agreements like the AfCFTA is crucial to ensure that women, who often face more significant barriers in accessing opportunities in the service industry, can benefit equitably. A gender-inclusive approach can help address systemic inequalities, ensuring that women entrepreneurs and workers gain from the increased market access and economic activities spurred by AfCFTA. This trade brief explores how the AfCFTA can serve as a catalyst for empowering women in the service sector, highlighting the opportunities it creates and the challenges that need addressing to make this empowerment a reality.