As part of a research project titled Mapping and Strengthening Agricultural Value Chains in SADC for Inclusive Trade under the AfCFTA, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) invites you to an online training session on the Foundations of the Value Chain Framework, taking place on 21 May 2026 at 10:00 (Pretoria time).

This session is the first of a two-part training programme and introduces the value chain framework. Value chain analysis examines the interlinkages within the productive sector, with a particular focus on how firms and countries integrate into global markets. This approach goes beyond traditional economic and social analysis, offering a more holistic understanding of production systems, their dynamics, and their impact on economic development.

This is particularly relevant to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to develop and strengthen regional value chains by increasing intra-African trade in manufactured goods and services, thereby enhancing industrialisation across the continent.

Dr Vuyo Mjimba (HSRC) will facilitate the training, focusing on the theoretical constructs of the value chain framework and its practical application. To strengthen capacity development, 25 places are available to HSRC colleagues, and 25 are reserved for partner research organisations that are not part of the research team but are interested in learning more about the framework.

Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

To express your interest in the training, please email Dr Vuyo Mjimba at vmjimba@hsrc.ac.za

Date: 21 May 2026

Time: 10:00 – 13:00

Venue: Online

Registration: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/382114742601287?p=X3TKf2PiT0wAlAGKhF

Event enquiries: vmjimba@hsrc.ac.za   

Make sure you sign up for the second session in this training series, taking place 18 June 2026. Register here.