Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, has become the focal point of discussions on Africa’s economic future as the African Economic Conference unfolds from November 23 to 25.
Co-hosted by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the event gathers experts and leaders under the theme, “Securing Africa’s Economic Future Amid Growing Uncertainty.”
In his keynote address, Botswana’s President Duma Boko emphasized the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), calling it “one of the most promising developments the world has ever seen.”
Highlighting its status as the largest free trade zone globally, Boko urged the continent to harness the agreement to boost intra-African trade, drive industrialization, and position Africa as a formidable global economic force.
Unlocking Africa’s Economic Potential
President Boko outlined a vision for AfCFTA that extends beyond trade.
He stressed the need for regional collaboration in infrastructure development, resource management, and conflict resolution. “Regional cooperation is critical.
It must encompass trade, but also shared infrastructure and sustainable resource management,” he said.
He called on African nations to accelerate efforts to foster integration, underscoring the importance of creating jobs and attracting investments through this unified economic framework.
AfCFTA: Africa’s “Crown Jewel”
Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of UNECA, echoed the president’s sentiments, describing the AfCFTA as the “crown jewel” of Africa’s economic integration agenda.
Gatete emphasized the urgency of implementing measures to allow the free movement of goods, services, and people across borders.
He pointed to visa exemption policies adopted by countries like Botswana, Rwanda, and Ghana as practical examples of removing barriers to intra-African collaboration.
“These policies pave the way for seamless integration, fostering stronger economic and social ties across the continent,” Gatete noted.
Charting a Path Forward
As the conference concludes, delegates are expected to propose actionable strategies to address the continent’s challenges and opportunities.
The discussions aim to ensure that Africa’s economic development remains resilient amid global uncertainties.
The focus on AfCFTA as a unifying framework reflects growing optimism that Africa, leveraging its vast resources and young population, can redefine its role in the global economy while tackling persistent barriers to growth.
