This chapter recognises progress in human development in Africa, notably reducing poverty and improving education and health outcomes, and the role trade plays. It highlights the impacts of exclusion, gender inequality and unsustainable development. It also discusses the need to exploit the opportunities that value chains offer and to mitigate the risks they bring, using technology and innovation; doing so can help achieve greater human rights, sustainable economic development and social progress for all – goals of the post-2015 agenda. The chapter illustrates good practices and lessons learned in advancing equitable and sustainable human development.