The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) has officially launched its Africa Hub in Lagos, marking a significant milestone in efforts to drive inclusive private sector development across the continent. The hub aims to                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               deepen regional integration, promote good governance, and empower underrepresented groups—particularly women entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). CIPE, a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit, says the new regional hub will serve as a platform to strengthen policy advocacy, enhance institutional capacity of business associations, and foster constructive investment across Africa Speaking at the launch event, Andrew Wilson, Executive Director of CIPE, noted that the Africa Hub is designed to support sustainable economic growth, democratic governance, and inclusive participation in economic policy. “This hub is a space for African business leaders to drive meaningful reform, boost resilience, and create economic opportunities that benefit entire communities,” Wilson said. The Africa Hub will centralize CIPE’s operations in the region, allowing for more responsive programming tailored to the unique economic and political dynamics of African countries. A core focus of the hub is expanding access and representation for women, youth, and small businesses groups that often face systemic barriers in influencing policy and accessing capital. Lola Adekanye, CIPE’s Regional Director for Africa, emphasized that the hub will give these groups a stronger voice in shaping business and governance reforms. “By localizing our operations, we are better positioned to support the voices of women and youth in economic policy decisions that directly impact their lives and livelihoods,” she said As part of the launch, CIPE announced a new partnership with the University of Lagos to introduce the Association and Chamber Excellence (ACE) Certification Programme. The initiative will provide training and resources to chambers of commerce and business associations, focusing on governance, advocacy, digital systems, and strategy. This programme aims to build the capacity of local organizations many of which are led by or serve women entrepreneurs to better represent their members and influence national and regional policies. According to CIPE’s Chief of Staff, Becky Johnson, the hub formalizes CIPE’s long-standing work across Africa and reflects its commitment to supporting cross-border collaboration. One of its key partners is the Nigeria Chamber of Commerce for Women, which represents over 4 million women-owned enterprises. Abdulwahab Alkebsi, CIPE’s Global Managing Director of Programs, highlighted the importance of “constructive capital” over exploitative investment flows, warning that weak governance systems can attract harmful investments that undermine fair market practices. “We must ensure that capital entering African economies builds value, respects local laws, and protects labor and environmental standards,” Alkebsi said. CIPE’s Africa Hub is seen as a timely development for female entrepreneurs, many of whom face challenges such as limited financing, poor representation in trade policy, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks. With a stronger focus on gender inclusion, capacity-building, and policy engagement, the Africa Hub presents new opportunities to level the playing field for women in business across the continent.