ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called on African countries to deepen regional integration and accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing continental unity as critical to the continent’s economic future.
In a statement issued on Tuesday to mark Africa Integration Day, Youssouf said Africa must strengthen political commitment and collective action to advance integration amid growing global economic uncertainty.
He described the AfCFTA as Africa’s most significant economic project, saying it presents the continent with a unique opportunity to transform its vast potential into shared prosperity.
“African unity is our greatest strategic asset. The AfCFTA is the defining economic project of our generation and our best opportunity to transform Africa’s immense potential into prosperity for all Africans,” Youssouf said.
Africa Integration Day is commemorated annually on July 7 to mark the launch of the operational phase of the AfCFTA in Niamey, Niger, in 2019. The day celebrates Africa’s pursuit of unity, economic cooperation and sustainable development.
Faster implementation urged
Youssouf noted that the AfCFTA brings together 55 African countries with a combined population of more than 1.3 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of about US$3.4 trillion.
Despite that potential, he observed that intra-African trade remains relatively low, accounting for only about 16 to 18 pc of the continent’s total trade.
He urged member states to remove barriers to trade, harmonise regulations and invest in infrastructure that connects African economies.
According to the AU Commission, improved roads, railways, ports, energy networks and digital infrastructure are essential for strengthening regional value chains, industrialisation and sustainable economic growth.
Youssouf also emphasised the importance of implementing the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, saying easier movement of traders, entrepreneurs, professionals, students and workers would support trade, investment and innovation across Africa.
Agenda 2063 vision
The AU Commission Chairperson said Africa’s integration agenda should create meaningful opportunities for young people, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and small businesses while strengthening peace, security and good governance.
He added that Regional Economic Communities remain central to achieving deeper continental integration.
Calling on Africans to remain confident in the continent’s future, Youssouf urged governments and citizens to work together towards achieving the aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063.
“History will judge this generation not by the vision it inherited, but by the Africa it succeeds in building together. Let us move forward with unity, determination and confidence towards an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent,” he said.
He reaffirmed the African Union Commission’s commitment to working with member states and development partners to ensure that continental integration delivers tangible economic and social benefits for African citizens.