Time for Africa to go borderless

The African Union Commission is at the forefront of advocating for the free movement of people and goods among member states, with the ultimate goal of creating a borderless Africa. One of the key initiatives driving this vision is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Guided Trade Initiative, which aims to promote continued trade under the AfCFTA, leading to increased opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), youth, and women in trade. Flora Limukii of CNBC Africa recently had an in-depth conversation with Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, to shed light on the efforts being made to foster economic development and integration across the continent. The discussion emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive and highlighted the strategies being implemented to overcome existing barriers to trade within Africa. Nsanzabaganwa also underscored the significance of value chains and the role of digital platforms in enhancing trade facilitation, particularly for marginalized groups such as women and youth. As Africa continues on the path towards a borderless future, the interview addressed the critical need for political will and collaboration among member states to drive the Agenda 2063 of the AfCFTA. While progress has been made, with 54 countries signing the agreement and 48 ratifying it, there is still work to be done in ensuring that the vision of a united and prosperous Africa becomes a reality. The interview further explored the relationship between regional trade blocs and the AfCFTA, emphasizing the complementary nature of these structures in the broader framework of African integration. Nsanzabaganwa shared insights from the recent ESEA Southern Africa conference, highlighting the positive momentum and tangible outcomes observed during the event. The engagement of private sector stakeholders, particularly women entrepreneurs, underscored the growing enthusiasm and commitment towards maximizing the economic potential of the continent. As discussions around trade, collaboration, and value chain strategies continue to evolve, it is evident that Africa is poised to unlock new opportunities and achieve sustainable growth under the banner of the AfCFTA. The journey towards a borderless Africa is not without its challenges, but with concerted efforts and a shared vision, the continent is on a promising trajectory towards inclusive economic development and regional integration.