African Customs Union: AfDB & Partners Drive Integration
AfCFTA: Africa’s Path to Economic Unity and Global competitiveness
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Nairobi,Kenya – The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is being hailed as a pivotal moment in Africa’s pursuit of economic integration,a vision long enshrined in the 1991 Abuja Treaty. Experts and leaders gathered to discuss the critical next steps needed to fully realize the continent’s economic potential, emphasizing the imperative of moving towards an African Continental Customs Union and a Common Market.
Accelerating Integration for inclusive Growth
Moses Vilakati, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, underscored the significance of the AfCFTA, describing it as a “monumental milestone” for Africa. He stressed that to truly unlock the continent’s potential for inclusive growth and sustainable growth,a concerted effort is required to accelerate the establishment of an African Continental customs Union and a Common Market.
“To truly unlock our continent’s potential for inclusive growth and sustainable development, we must now accelerate our efforts towards an African Continental Customs Union and a Common Market,” Vilakati stated. He further called for the dismantling of existing trade barriers and the harmonization of national and regional policies. This, he argued, is essential for creating a stronger, more resilient African economy capable of competing effectively on the global stage.
ARIA XI: A Practical Roadmap for Deeper Integration
The discussion also highlighted the importance of the African Regional Integration Index (ARIA) XI report, a collaborative effort by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Union Commission (AUC), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). Aboubakri Diaw, representing Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the ECA, praised the report as more than just a research document.
“ARIA XI is not just another report on Africa’s integration–it is a forward-looking, intellectually grounded, and practical policy tool for deepening the continent’s integration and enhancing its competitiveness in an increasingly complex global geopolitical landscape,” Diaw remarked. He urged African leaders and institutions to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the implementation of the AfCFTA, advocating for bold steps towards establishing a customs union and common market.
the Role of Regional Economic Communities (RECs)
A key segment of the event featured a panel discussion focused on “The Role of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in Deepening Africa’s Integration: The Journey Towards the African Economic Community.” The panel included prominent figures such as Dr.Omar Alieu Toura, President of the Ecowas Commission; Ambassador Gilberto da Pededade Verissimo, President of the Ecus Commission; and He el Hadji Abou, Secretary of the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (cen-Sad).
Dr. Kategekwa summarized the collective sentiment, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to achieving the African Economic community. “we do not only dare to dream in talking about how we deliver the African Economic Community,” she said. “We talk about the specificities of how we go about it.” This sentiment reflects a commitment to actionable strategies and concrete steps, ensuring that the integration process is not merely aspirational but deeply rooted in practical implementation.
The ARIA XI report, with its comprehensive roadmap, offers a critical framework for reshaping Africa’s economic landscape for generations to come.The success of the AfCFTA hinges on the full engagement of all stakeholders, ensuring that integration serves as a vital strategy for survival and prosperity across the continent.
Download the full ARIA XI report: https://www.aria-report.org/