A regional, non-profit knowledge institution advancing evidence-based trade policy, international trade law expertise, and economic governance across Africa. Headquartered in Kampala, Uganda, TLEF works to strengthen Africa's participation in global trade through research, capacity building, and strategic advisory support to governments, businesses, and regional organizations.
Impact-Driven
The Trade Lawyers and Economists Forum (TLEF) is a regional, non-profit knowledge institution advancing evidence-based trade policy, international trade law expertise, and economic governance across Africa. Headquartered in Kampala, Uganda, TLEF works to strengthen Africa's participation in global trade through research, capacity building, and strategic advisory support to governments, businesses, and regional organizations.
Our programs are designed to create system-wide impact by empowering policymakers, enhancing institutional capacity, and promoting inclusive and sustainable trade practices.
Strategic Objectives
Promote research, policy development, and advocacy in international trade law, economics, and regional integration.
Provide technical expertise and consultancy services in trade law, trade policy, investment, and economic governance.
Our mission is to strengthen Africa's capacity to engage competitively and sustainably in the global trading system by generating knowledge, building expertise, and supporting institutions to make informed, strategic trade policy decisions.
Why Partner With Us
TLEF collaborates with development partners, foundations, international organizations, and academic institutions to shape the future of Africa's trade landscape. By partnering with us, donors gain:
Key Benefits
- High-quality research informing policy reforms at national, regional, and continental levels.
- Direct impact on institutional capacity through training, technical assistance, and advisory services.
- A platform for advancing inclusive and sustainable trade that benefits women, youth, and SMEs.
- A credible, Africa-rooted voice supporting implementation of agreements such as the AfCFTA.
- A multidisciplinary team of trade lawyers and economists committed to transparent, ethical, and evidence-driven work.
Partnership Priorities
Research & Policy Development
Producing actionable, policy-relevant research that supports trade reforms and improves Africa's trade performance.
Capacity Building & Training
Designing and delivering professional training programs that empower lawyers, trade negotiators, policymakers, and private sector actors.
Institutional Strengthening
Providing technical support to national ministries, trade agencies, regional economic communities, and chambers of commerce.
SME Trade Support Programs
Helping small and medium enterprises comply with international trade rules and access regional and global markets.
Inclusive & Sustainable Trade
Promoting gender-responsive, transparent, and socially responsible trade policies aligned with SDGs and African development priorities.
Value Proposition
Measurable Impact
Our interventions are designed with clear indicators and monitoring frameworks to ensure tangible outcomes.
Regional Reach
While based in Uganda, our work spans Eastern Africa, the African Union, RECs, and the broader continent.
Technical Excellence
Our diverse team combines legal, economic, and policy expertise to deliver comprehensive, interdisciplinary solutions.
Collaborative Approach
We co-create projects with partners, ensuring alignment with national priorities, regional strategies, and global development frameworks.
Donor & Partner Engagement Models
We welcome partnerships through:
Research grants and commissioned studies
Capacity-building sponsorships
Institutional support and technical assistance programs
Collaborative regional or continental initiatives
Long-term strategic partnerships with foundations and development agencies
Support for SME-focused trade advisory services
Joint publications, conferences, and policy dialogues
Join the Trade Lawyers & Economists Forum
We invite trade law specialists, economists, policy analysts, academics, negotiators, researchers, and practitioners across Africa and beyond to join the Trade Lawyers and Economists Forum (TLEF). Membership is free and open to all professionals committed to strengthening Africa's participation in regional and global trade.
Why Join TLEF?
As a member, you will be part of a dynamic and growing network that offers:
Professional Growth & Learning
- ›Access to expert-led seminars, training programs, and workshops.
- ›Opportunities to deepen your skills in trade law, trade policy, negotiations, and economic governance.
Networking & Collaboration
- ›Engage with a diverse community of legal and economic experts.
- ›Participate in interdisciplinary dialogues, forums, and policy roundtables.
- ›Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders from across Africa and internationally.
Research & Knowledge Sharing
- ›Contribute to collaborative research, publications, and policy briefs.
- ›Share insights, publish thought pieces, and participate in knowledge exchange activities.
Visibility & Professional Contribution
- ›Participate in shaping trade policy debates and reforms across Africa.
- ›Offer your expertise to support governments, regional bodies, and private sector institutions.
Member Benefits
- ›Free membership
- ›Invitations to exclusive events, workshops, and research presentations
- ›Priority and subsidized access to capacity-building programs
- ›Eligibility to participate in TLEF working groups and thematic clusters
- ›Opportunities to contribute to regional policy processes
Who Can Join?
Membership is open to:
- ›Trade lawyers and legal practitioners
- ›Economists and economic policy analysts
- ›Academics, researchers, and postgraduate students
- ›Government and regional organization officials
Simply complete the online membership form — no fees, no obligations. Become part of a continental community shaping the future of Africa's trade.
Events & Workshops
We organize:
Annual Trade Policy Forum
Bringing together policymakers, scholars, private sector actors, and development partners.
Roundtable Dialogues
Expert discussions on emerging trade law and economic issues.
Regional Trainings & Consultations
Held across East, West, Central, and Southern Africa.
SME Trade Clinics
Practical mentoring and hands-on advisory for exporters.
Research & Publications
TLEF produces high-quality, accessible research that informs policy reforms across Africa. Sample publications include:
Note: All publications are made available in digital formats for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.
Team
View Details
Dr. Phionah Namuliira
Treasurer
TLEF Registration Certificate
View our official registration certificate documenting the legal establishment of the Trade Lawyers and Economists Forum.
View Certificate (PDF)