DHL has announced the inaugural Exporters of the Year Awards for Sub-Saharan Africa, a regional program created to spotlight small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are fueling trade, innovation, and economic progress.
Launched under DHL’s broader GoTrade initiative, the awards are designed to recognize SMEs excelling in cross-border commerce while upholding sustainability and international best practices. Through GoTrade, DHL tackles common hurdles—such as access to finance, logistics, training, and ICT—so entrepreneurs can compete globally and scale responsibly.
Eligibility focuses on formally registered SMEs with 25 or fewer full-time employees that have traded goods across borders for at least 12 months, operate sustainably, and comply with international trade rules. By setting this bar, DHL aims to highlight firms that not only drive growth but also exemplify the standards required to succeed in global markets.
DHL’s leadership underscores the pivotal role of SMEs in resilient, inclusive growth. Under the GoTrade banner, the company says the awards are meant to celebrate SME impact, champion their participation in global value chains, and amplify the work they do across the region.
The program features three headline categories. The ESG Excellence Exporter Award will honor companies with standout commitments to sustainability, ethical governance, and social impact. The Women Exporter of the Year Award will recognize women-led businesses demonstrating leadership, innovation, and measurable success in new markets. The Global Expansion Exporter Award will spotlight SMEs that have achieved notable international growth.
For Africa’s SME ecosystem, the initiative is more than a trophy—it’s a springboard to visibility, credibility, and partnerships. In an increasingly competitive trade environment, DHL’s awards offer a platform for small businesses to showcase their contributions and accelerate expansion beyond their home borders.
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