African women face enormous challenges in global agribusiness. Technological advances, new delivery systems, volatile consumer demands and stringent quality standards put tremendous pressure on farmers, processors and exporters.
To move into export markets, these women must have:

• Updates on trends and opportunities in commerce
• Advanced training on management and technical practices
• Financial services for investment and trade
• Risk-management tools to mitigate hazards in international business

AWAN-EA offers solutions by serving as a critical link to these resources. But keeping our members ahead of the export pack requires us to strengthen our institutional capacity. Through a highly participatory process involving all key stakeholders, AWAN-EA has developed Strategic Plan 2005-2010 as a guide for growth and development.

Our five-year plan maps out a bold new direction. It redefines our organization and identifies methods for achieving AWAN-EA’s Six Strategic Goals, which are to:

• Enhance Trade and Market Development
• Facilitate Access to Risk-Management and Financial Services
• Improve Quality Standards and Compliance
• Lobby and Advocate for Better Trade Policies
• Increase Information Sharing and Networking Opportunities
• Strengthen Institutional Capacity and Skills

By meeting these goals, we will contribute toward important tangible results, including:

• Economic growth
• Job creation
• Poverty reduction
• Food security
• Sustainable development
• Fair trade
• Environmentally sound farming practices
• Safe working condition
• Gender equity