The OECD/SWAC Public-Private Dialogue is a platform that focuses on enhancing intra-regional food trade in West Africa by fostering collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify challenges, implement inclusive solutions, and build mutual trust to improve food security, stimulate economic growth, and promote regional integration. A key aspect of this dialogue is addressing gender-specific barriers in the food trade sector, recognizing the central role women play and the unique challenges they face.
Chigozie Bashua (Founder & CEO, The Nut Place), contributes significantly to this dialogue. Her company specializes in producing gluten-free food products from edible nuts, aiming to improve nutrition, promote healthy living, and reduce post-harvest wastage in Africa.
At a recent gathering, she said:
I had the privilege of participating in the OECD/SWAC Public-Private Dialogue on the private sector’s perceptions of the food trade environment in West Africa. It was an insightful conversation that brought together key stakeholders to address the pressing challenges in regional trade.
As a private sector player, I shared my perspectives on the barriers to intra-African food trade, including regulatory bottlenecks, infrastructure deficits, and access to finance. More importantly, I proffered actionable recommendations to foster a more seamless, efficient, and sustainable trade ecosystem in West Africa.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for unlocking trade potential, boosting food security, and driving economic growth in the region.
I look forward to seeing how these conversations translate into impactful reforms!
Under Chigozie’s leadership, The Nut Place not only offers healthy nut-based products but also commits to several social impact programs. These include providing discounted healthy food products for diabetic patients, operating an 80% women-led company, and increasing the number of women suppliers and vendors.
Through these initiatives, Bashua exemplifies the integration of sustainable business practices with social responsibility, aligning with the objectives of the OECD/SWAC Public-Private Dialogue to create inclusive and equitable food systems in West Africa.
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