Let me open this weekend edition by congratulating Mr Wamkele Mene on his reappointment as Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Your dedication and exemplary leadership over the past four years have played a pivotal role in driving forward the implementation process of the AfCFTA and achieving significant progress. Your tenure has been marked by remarkable accomplishments, contributing to the advancement of intra-African trade and economic integration. Your steadfast commitment to the AfCFTA’s objectives has been instrumental in navigating challenges and realising opportunities for the benefit of all member states.
Without any whiff of doubt, your reappointment underscores the trust and confidence placed in your ability to continue leading the organisation with vision and competence. Your track record of effective stewardship and tireless advocacy for African economic empowerment has earned you admiration and respect across the continent.
As you embark on another term as Secretary-General, I have no doubt that you will continue to inspire and guide us towards the realisation of the AfCFTA’s full potential. Your leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of regional trade dynamics and fostering cooperation among member states to build a prosperous and integrated African economy.
The recent report by H.E. Mr. Issoufou Mahamadou underscores the tangible progress achieved in advancing the AfCFTA agenda, setting a promising trajectory for intra-African trade and economic development. With 47 member states having ratified the Agreement, and negotiations progressing on various fronts such as market access, tariff liberalisation, and rules of origin, there’s a palpable sense of momentum towards realising the AfCFTA’s vision of a more integrated African economy.
Of particular note is the commendable decision to ban trade in second-hand goods under the AfCFTA, signalling a strong commitment to promoting local industries and fostering industrialisation across the continent. The adoption of rules facilitating trade in specific sectors like textiles and automotive, alongside the extension of initiatives like the Guided Trade Initiative to encompass trade in services, further underscores the comprehensive approach towards economic integration.
Moreover, the imminent adoption of key protocols such as the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade and the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade signifies a recognition of the evolving dynamics of trade and the importance of inclusivity in shaping Africa’s economic future. The commitment of member states to conclude negotiations on these protocols reflects a collective determination to address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities in the digital age.
As Brandhill Africa™, we applaud the dedication and collaborative spirit demonstrated by African nations in advancing the AfCFTA agenda. However, we also recognise the importance of sustained efforts to address remaining challenges, accelerate implementation, and ensure the inclusive benefits of trade integration are realised by all segments of society. By continuing to work together, African nations can unlock the full potential of the AfCFTA to drive sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and improve livelihoods across the continent.
The recent negotiations have seen noteworthy achievements, particularly in market access and tariff liberalisation. The adoption of additional tariff offers from Comoros, Ethiopia, and Malawi, along with ongoing technical verification processes for other member states, reflects a concerted effort to expand trade opportunities across the continent. However, it’s imperative to encourage countries such as Djibouti, Libya, Mozambique, Somalia, the Saharawi Republic, and Sudan to expedite the submission of their tariff offers to ensure comprehensive coverage under the AfCFTA framework.
In terms of rules of origin, commendable progress has been made, with agreements reached on key sectors such as textiles, clothing, and automotive. The adoption of rules banning trade in second-hand goods underscores a commitment to fostering industrialisation and promoting the development of domestic industries. Furthermore, the finalisation and adoption of the consolidated version of Annex 2 on Rules of Origin represent significant milestones in streamlining trade procedures and ensuring clarity and consistency in regulatory frameworks.
Additionally, efforts to enhance trade in services through the adoption of schedules of specific commitments and the extension of the Guided Trade Initiative are commendable. However, there’s a need to accelerate the submission of schedules and commitments by member states to fully harness the potential of trade in services under the AfCFTA. Furthermore, the progress made in finalising the AfCFTA Investment Protocol and concluding negotiations on key protocols such as Digital Trade and Women and Youth in Trade reflects a forward-looking approach to addressing emerging challenges and seizing new opportunities in the digital era.
Beyond the AfCFTA Secretariat, the achievements outlined in the report by H.E. Mr. Issoufou Mahamadou are testament to the collective commitment of African nations towards realising the transformative potential of the AfCFTA. Moving forward, sustained efforts and collaboration will be essential to overcome remaining challenges and ensure inclusive and sustainable economic growth for the continent.
Tujenge Afrika Pamoja! Let’s Build Africa Together.
Enjoy your weekend.
Saul Molobi (FCIM)
PUBLISHER: JAMBO AFRICA ONLINE
and
Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Brandhill Africa™
Tel: +27 11 483 1019
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