By Wallace Mawire
The Civil Society Coalition for African Continental Free Trade Area (CSCAfCFTA) is celebrating one year of impact and progress in advancing Africa’s trade and investment agenda, according to Dr Emmanuel V. Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the coalition headquartered in Ghana.
The coalition marks one year since its official launch described by Dr Brown as a year of unwavering commitment, strategic collaboration and tangible progress towards transforming Africa’s economic landscape through trade and investment.
The coalition was inaugurated on 25 March, 2024 and on 25 March, 2025 marked its one year anniversary.
Dr Brown said from the very beginning, their vision has been clear: to champion a united, integrated and economically empowered Africa through the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He said over the past year, they have worked tirelessly to promote, facilitate, and advance intra-African trade, ensuring that businesses, entrepreneurs and communities reap the benefits of Africa’s largest and most ambitious economic integration initiative.
On the achievements and milestones achieved over the year’s period, Dec Brown said CSCAfCFTA
engaged policymakers, trade experts and industry leaders to shape policies that drive inclusive trade and investment,
empowered African SMEs, women and youth entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the AfCFTA era. He said the coalition has strengthened partnerships across governments, private sector, and civil society to accelerate the implementation of trade agreements.
It has also amplified Africa’s trade potential on the global stage, advocating for sustainable development, fair trade and economic resilience.
Dr Brown added that it is just the beginning saying the road ahead is even more critical.
In a c all to action on unlocking Africa’s full trade potential, Dr Brown said
as they we celebrate the milestone, they hope to renew their commitment to fostering stronger collaboration, deeper partnerships and transformative policies that will unlock Africa’s $3.4 trillion trade market and create millions of jobs.
The coalition has called on governments to enhance trade infrastructure, reduce trade barriers and implement pro-business policies.
Private sector leaders have been called on to invest in Africa’s industries, supply chains and digital trade platforms.
Civil society and development partners have been urged to continue advocating for equitable and sustainable trade practices and
the African diaspora to engage, invest and contribute to Africa’s economic renaissance.
Dr Brown said through collaboration, an Africa that is not just trading within itself but competing globally as an economic powerhouse can be built, empowering communities, creating wealth and driving prosperity for generations to come.
