Women in Cross Border Trade

Women cross-border traders in Burundi have traditionally work individually and not as co-operatives, lacking understanding on the benefits of joint businesses or working as a team. The temporary closure of some borders has affected the livelihoods of these women traders as they now cross the border via rivers, which further raises safety concerns. Transportation of vegetables through the river also leads to spoilage and therefore the traders are unable to fetch high prices.

The income of women traders is based on price differences in the sales of items, net of daily transport costs and allows for just day-to-day survival. Women traders do not produce any products or add value to it.

In addition, many women traders are exposed to gender-based violence including beatings, verbal insults, sexual harassment and even rape. Women traders report harassment from government officials, and at times from buyers, which cause delays and income losses and much of it goes unreported. Informal cross-border traders, particularly women, need strong institutions to advocate for their rights in the expanding trade in the region.

This project will foster the development of a women-centred cross-border trade with a view to strengthening their economic resilience and social cohesion, and increase their incomes in the Burundi trade sector.