Value Chain Analysis Highlights Opportunities for Women Cross-Border Traders in the Mano River Union Region
The Building Inclusive Business Ecosystems for Stabilization and Transformation (BI-BEST) project, implemented by the Mano River Union (MRU) and funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), has taken a significant step forward with the completion of a comprehensive Value Chain Analysis (VCA). The report, conducted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), focuses on three core value chains: palm oil, cassava, and vegetables, in key border areas between Sierra Leone and Liberia. This critical analysis is designed to empower women cross-border traders (WCBTs) by identifying challenges and opportunities in the trade ecosystem.
Dr. Abubakarr Tarawalie, Project Coordinator of BI-BEST, emphasized the importance of the findings, stating, “This analysis forms the bedrock for strategic interventions that will enable women cross-border traders to fully realize their economic potential. By identifying barriers such as poor infrastructure, limited access to finance, and lack of market information, we are laying the groundwork for solutions that will foster resilient economic growth and regional cohesion.”
The analysis, conducted at the Gendema-Bo Waterside and Koindu-Foya border points, reveals stark contrasts between these two regions. While the Gendema-Bo Waterside crossing is bustling with trade, including key products like palm oil, cassava, and vegetables, the Koindu-Foya crossing has seen a steep decline in activity, with traders increasingly seeking opportunities in Guinea due to the poor road conditions and lower traffic volumes.
Nicholas Hudson, the lead consultant for the Value Chain Analysis, highlighted the importance of practical interventions. “Our findings show that women traders face significant challenges, including currency devaluation and high transport costs, but also opportunities for market growth. By addressing these through targeted support, particularly in financial literacy and capacity building, we can help women traders thrive,” Hudson explained.
In addition to these economic challenges, the VCA identifies the need for greater safety and transparency at border crossings. WCBTs are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence (GBV) and corruption, and many are unaware of the proper trading procedures. As Valentina Verze from ILO pointed out, “Women traders need safer trading environments and clearer information on regulations. This analysis not only highlights the problem but also suggests actionable steps, such as creating awareness campaigns and improving infrastructure at the borders.”
The findings of the Value Chain Analysis will guide the next phase of the BI-BEST project, which aims to improve access to finance, enhance business knowledge, and promote safer trading conditions for women in the region. By addressing the root causes of market inefficiencies, the project will help create sustainable economic opportunities for women traders, contributing to broader regional stability and economic resilience.
This report underscores the MRU’s commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusive economic growth. Dr. Tarawalie concluded, “The opportunities identified in this analysis can catalyze significant change. We are confident that with continued collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, and the traders themselves, we can create a more equitable and prosperous future for women cross-border traders in the Mano River Union region.”
