Hosted in Lusaka, Zambia, the three-day forum focused on enhancing trade and connectivity through digital technology, bringing together stakeholders from across the continent to align on strategies for implementation.
The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol, adopted during the African Union’s 37th Ordinary Session in 2024, seeks to harmonise digital trade policies across African nations.
Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema underscored the importance of information and communication technology (ICT) as a fundamental pillar for Africa’s economic transformation.
“The building blocks, whether East Africa, West Africa, the Sahel, or North Africa, must align through common standards, regulations, and laws,” Hichilema said, stressing the need for regional coordination.
Botswana’s President Duma Boko echoed similar sentiments, calling for the removal of trade barriers and urging African nations to translate discussions into tangible actions.
“We must move from words to transformative action, real, concrete deliverables that affect the lives and livelihoods of everyday people,” Boko stated.
South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Parks Tau, joined his counterparts from Nigeria and Rwanda in advocating for harmonised policies. “Boosting digital trade is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It is central to the success of the AfCFTA and to Africa’s future,” Tau said.
A significant highlight of the forum was the launch of the Twin Foundation, an initiative aimed at addressing inefficiencies in global trade practices. Supported by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, the foundation seeks to streamline Africa’s position in digital commerce.
Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair also addressed the gathering, while Zambia’s Minister of Commerce, Chipoka Mulenga, expressed concern over Africa’s low contribution to global trade. “Africa accounts for less than 3% of international trade and only 16% of intra-Africa trade. This must change,” Mulenga asserted.
AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene urged Africa’s youth to harness digital platforms for content creation and income generation, emphasising the need for economic value retention within the continent.
“African content creators are leveraging digital platforms to build global audiences and generate incomes. However, the bulk of revenues remain outside our continent. The Digital Trade Protocol must reverse this trend,” Mene said.
--ChannelAfrica--
