Membership Framework of GCATRED
Membership Categories
In line with GCATRED’s 54 member states, inclusive, and multi-sectoral mandate, membership is open to a wide range of actors committed to advancing trade, rights, and sustainable development across Africa and the diaspora. The proposed membership categories include:
a) Individual Members
Professionals, researchers, activists, youth leaders, and entrepreneurs engaged or interested in trade, economic development, and human rights.
b) Institutional Members
Non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, universities, and research institutions.
c) Governmental / Intergovernmental Members
National ministries, public agencies, African Union (AU) organs, and Regional Economic Communities (RECs).
d) Private Sector Members
Companies, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), business associations, and chambers of commerce.
e) Development Partners / Donors
Bilateral and multilateral agencies, foundations, and philanthropic institutions.
Membership Criteria
Membership in GCATRED is guided by its core values and mission. Applicants must demonstrate:
- Commitment to Pan-African and global solidarity, integration, and cooperation
- Support for human rights, the rule of law, and good governance
- Dedication to inclusive trade and sustainable development
- Proven interest or engagement in economic transformation, social inclusion, trade facilitation, or human rights advocacy
- Willingness to collaborate, share knowledge, and promote collective growth
- Agreement to uphold GCATRED’s Constitution and Code of Conduct
Note: Applicants may be asked to submit a short Statement of Interest outlining how their goals align with GCATRED’s objectives.
Membership Fees
Membership fees are designed to be accessible yet sustainable to support GCATRED’s operations and programs.
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Category
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Proposed Annual Fee
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|---|---|
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Individuals
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Individuals $100/year ( Youth/Students: $50/year )
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CSOs/NGOs/Academic Institutions
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$500/year (based on size)
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Private Sector (SMEs)
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$400/year
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Private Sector ( Large Corporates )
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$1,000+/year
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Governmental / Intergovernmental Bodies
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Negotiated partnerships or MoUs ( typically fee-exempt but with defined commitments )
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Development Partners / Donors
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No fee; contribution through financial or programmatic support
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Note : Membership fees may be reviewed or adjusted by the General Assembly and must receive approval from the Monitoring, Ethics, and Deontology Committee (MEDC).
Membership Benefits
GCATRED offers its members a wide range of value-added benefits designed to enhance collaboration, visibility, and capacity building.
- Access to Pan-African and global networks across government, civil society, and private sectors
- Introductions to potential collaborators, investors, and development partners
- Discounted or priority access to leadership, policy, and entrepreneurship programs
- Specialized courses in trade facilitation, innovation, and human rights
- Participation in research collaborations, policy dialogues, and data hubs
- Opportunities to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and regional advocacy
- Invitations to GCATRED conferences, workshops, and trade dialogues
- Speaking and exhibition opportunities at flagship events
- Listing in the GCATRED Membership Directory
- Eligibility to use the GCATRED membership logo and certificate
- Voting rights at the General Assembly (where applicable)
- Opportunity to serve on GCATRED committees, advisory councils, and working groups
- Regular updates on trade, investment, and human rights developments across Africa
- Exclusive access to GCATRED publications and research outputs
Member Responsibilities
All members are expected to:
- Uphold GCATRED’s core values of Pan-African and global unity, integrity, inclusion, sustainability, innovation, and accountability
- Pay annual membership fees promptly
- Participate actively in GCATRED programs, consultations, and assemblies
- Comply with GCATRED’s Constitution, Code of Conduct, and internal regulations
- Support collective advocacy initiatives aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063
Membership Application Process
- 1. Complete and submit the GCATRED Membership Application Form
- 2. Provide a Statement of Interest explaining motivation and alignment with GCATRED’s mission
- 3. Secretariat and/or Membership Committee review the application
- 4. Approval by the Executive Council or General Assembly (as per GCATRED governance structure)
- 5. Payment of membership fee
- 6. Issuance of an official membership certificate
Membership Renewal and Termination
- Membership is renewable annually upon payment of the prescribed fee
- Members who violate the Code of Conduct may face suspension or termination
- Any changes to membership policies or Secretariat location require approval by the General Assembly
Special Membership Designations
Active/Adherent Members :
Members who actively participate in GCATRED’s programs and meet the minimum annual contribution as determined by the Presidential Team or, where necessary, the Monitoring, Ethics, and Deontology Committee (MEDC).
Founding Members:
Those who participated in the establishment of GCATRED and contributed to its creation. They automatically hold membership and serve as moral guarantors of the organization’s foundational vision and values.
Honorary Members:
Distinguished individuals who have rendered outstanding service to GCATRED. They are exempted from annual fees.
Benefactor Members:
Members or institutions providing annual donations or substantial financial contributions in support of GCATRED’s mission.
Associate Members:
Partner organizations that collaborate with GCATRED to advance its objectives. Applications for associate membership are reviewed by the Presidential Team, which provides written approval or rejection with stated reasons.