Distinguished Guests,
Esteemed Experts,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you as we bring to a close three days of dynamic and spirited dialogue. Over these days, we’ve gathered for the 43rd Session of the Committee of Experts, within the Economic Commission for Africa’s 57th session of the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development. Our focus has been clear: Advancing the Implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area—Proposing Transformative Strategic Actions.
And what a remarkable gathering it has been. We’ve witnessed a powerful exchange of ideas, diverse perspectives, and bold visions for Africa’s economic resurgence. The numbers speak for themselves—524 delegates from 40 member States, alongside valued partners and organizations. But beyond the numbers, it is the quality of our conversations and the clarity of our collective purpose that truly mark this gathering as a success. Together, we have charted pathways that will guide our ministers and shape priorities at the global, regional, and national levels.
Now, let’s be honest. We stand at a crossroads. We face deep-rooted structural challenges—low levels of intra-African trade, persistent infrastructure gaps, and limited industrialization. These are not small obstacles. But neither are they insurmountable. Because alongside these challenges lie historic opportunities. Africa is home to a rapidly growing consumer market. We are rich in natural resources. We are blessed with a vibrant, innovative youth population. And we have the chance to harness cutting-edge technologies that can help us leapfrog traditional development stages.
In a global landscape marked by shifting power dynamics and digital disruption, Africa cannot afford to sit back. We must shape the future. And the African Continental Free Trade Area—AfCFTA—is our opportunity to do just that. It is our chance to redefine Africa’s economic standing, to amplify our voice on global issues, and to shape the rules of global trade and economic governance.
Throughout these sessions, you have underscored a simple but powerful truth: The AfCFTA is not just about trade. It is about transformation. It is about creating jobs, driving industrialization, building resilience, and ensuring that Africa’s growth is not just sustained, but inclusive. This agreement holds the potential to increase intra-African trade by 45% by 2045, boost GDP by 1.2%, and lift millions out of poverty. But none of this will happen by chance. It will take bold, coordinated, and strategic action.
And so, from our rich discussions, five key priorities have emerged:
First, we must fast-track industrialization and value addition. Africa can no longer rely on exporting raw commodities and importing finished goods. We must invest in local manufacturing, create regional value chains, and process our resources right here at home—in pharmaceuticals, electric mobility, agribusiness, and beyond. That’s how we create jobs. That’s how we build prosperity that lasts.
Second, we must close the infrastructure and connectivity gap. We know the figures. Africa faces an infrastructure financing gap of $170 billion per year. But we also know the solutions. We need to embrace innovative financing—public-private partnerships, blended finance, regional collaboration. We need roads, energy, and digital infrastructure that can connect our people and unlock our markets.
Third, we must champion digital transformation and trade facilitation. The future of trade is digital. It is borderless. It is fast. We must remove barriers to e-commerce, harmonize digital payment systems, and expedite the implementation of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade. Investing in digital infrastructure isn’t just smart—it’s essential. It will drive transparency, cut costs, and open new markets for African entrepreneurs.
Fourth, we must invest in building human capital for the future of work. Africa’s greatest asset is not under the ground. It is not in commodities. It is our people—our youth. That means scaling up education, vocational training, and skills development, particularly in industries that will define the future: advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, fintech, renewable energy. When we empower our young people, we empower Africa.
Fifth, we must strengthen macroeconomic stability and governance. Because without strong financial systems, progress stalls. We’ve heard the calls for enhancing fiscal discipline, improving debt management, expanding access to private finance, and advancing innovative financing models—including green finance to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss. And let me be clear: Africa must also speak with one voice to reform the global financial architecture. We must confront illicit financial flows and demand fair access to global capital.
Distinguished guests,
Esteemed experts,
The insights you’ve shared over these days have not just sparked discussion—they have laid the groundwork for action. You’ve called for:
-
Accelerating the removal of trade barriers and improving logistics to reduce costs and enhance efficiency.
-
Investing decisively in our industrial and digital futures while ensuring food security and resilience to climate shocks.
-
Building strong partnerships—within Africa and beyond—that drive growth, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
-
Strengthening macroeconomic stability and unlocking financing solutions across national, regional, and international levels.
This is a bold agenda. But I believe—I know—that Africa is ready. The conversations of these past three days have made one thing clear: with unity, innovation, and unwavering determination, there is no challenge we cannot overcome. There is no opportunity we cannot seize.
And so, I urge you—brief your ministers. Share these insights. Push for action. Because the decisions made in the coming days will shape the future of our continent.
Finally, let me express my deepest gratitude to the Host Government for their generosity and hospitality, and to all of you—our esteemed delegates—for your active, passionate participation.
Let’s leave this gathering with a shared commitment to build the Africa we want—an Africa that is just, prosperous, and resilient. An Africa that speaks with one voice and acts with one purpose.
Thank you.