A Technical and Statistical report exploring new thinking on achieving inclusive and sustainable development in African least developed countries by leveraging digital technologies and financing solutions for the integration of micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in regional value and supply chains. The report also proposes to bring together current knowledge on technology adoption and financing innovations for developing or enhancing small scale manufacturing and business services in rural communities, and how these technologies and innovations can make a clear breakthrough in financing micro, small and medium sized enterprises in African countries and facilitating their economic and trade integration at national, regional and global levels. The report provides an overview of MSMEs characteristics in Africa, identify niche areas for MSMEs integration into regional value and supply chains (e.g., under the AfCFTA), and examine digital technologies and innovative financing as enablers for MSMEs growth and competitiveness in regional markets by drawing examples from Ethiopia, Tanzania, Malawi and Uganda.
