Nigeria unveils digital trade mapping findings at Lusaka Jollof Mixer

Nigeria showcased its commitment to advancing the continent’s digital economy on Friday night in Lusaka, Zambia, as it unveiled preliminary findings from its National Digital Trade Mapping project at a high-level networking event tagged the Jollof Mixer.

The event, hosted in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP Nigeria), brought together over 400 participants, including tech innovators, policymakers, and development partners. It highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen intra-African digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

Honourable Minister Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, who led Nigeria’s delegation, described the event as a convergence of “co-creators” determined to shape a digitally driven Africa. She emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and innovation in accelerating inclusive trade across the continent.

Distinguished guests included H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA Secretariat; Mr. Mpho Parks Tau, South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition; and Zambia’s Honourable Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga.

The National Digital Trade Mapping project is Nigeria’s first comprehensive assessment of its digital trade readiness. The findings will inform policy direction and infrastructure investment as the country positions itself as a regional leader in digital commerce.

The evening also fostered cross-country connections, with stakeholders engaging over culture, cuisine, and conversations about the future of digital integration in Africa.