AfCFTA At Seven: Africa’s Trade Revolution Gains Unstoppable Momentum

By Adonis Byemelwa

Seven years ago today, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was born with the signing of its foundational agreement by 44 countries.

Since then, the momentum has been undeniable—54 nations have now signed, 48 have ratified, and AfCFTA is no longer just a vision; it is actively reshaping Africa’s trade and economic landscape.

What once seemed like an ambitious dream has evolved into a dynamic reality. With the legal frameworks firmly in place, AfCFTA is unlocking investment opportunities, strengthening trade corridors, and expanding market access across the continent.

Tools like the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, and the E-Tariff Book are making cross-border trade more seamless than ever before.

This is not just about trade—it’s about transforming Africa into a self-reliant, economically sovereign powerhouse.
The Agreement’s protocols on Trade in Goods, Trade in Services, Investment, Intellectual Property Rights, Digital Trade, and Women and Youth in Trade provide a structured, rules-based approach to Africa’s economic transformation.

A robust Dispute Settlement Mechanism ensures transparency and bolsters investor confidence, setting the stage for sustainable economic growth.

Professor P.L.O. Lumumba of Kenya, a staunch advocate of Pan-Africanism, describes AfCFTA as the “most revolutionary economic undertaking in modern African history.” He believes that, if implemented effectively, AfCFTA will liberate Africa from the economic chains of external dependency.

Lumumba often speaks of the need for Africa to trade within itself, build industries that serve its people, and harness its immense resources for the benefit of the continent rather than external powers. “For too long,” he says, “Africa has exported raw materials and imported poverty.AfCFTA is our chance to reverse this.” His words ring true as Africa moves closer to economic self-sufficiency.

However, the success of AfCFTA is not automatic. To maximize its full potential, three critical priorities must be addressed: First, trade facilitation must be strengthened through harmonized customs systems and more efficient logistics networks. Delays at border points and bureaucratic bottlenecks must become relics of the past.

Second, regional value chain integration must be deepened to drive industrialization, create jobs, and reduce Africa’s dependency on imported finished goods.

Third, access to trade finance must be expanded—particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of Africa’s economy. Without sufficient financial support, many businesses will struggle to take advantage of the single market.

AfCFTA is more than a trade agreement; it is Africa’s path to prosperity. The foundation is laid, and now is the time for precision in execution.

The Africa International Chamber of Commerce and Industry remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships that turn this promise into tangible transformation. The work is far from over, but the momentum is unstoppable.

In celebration of AfCFTA’s seven-year milestone, industry leaders and trade experts are coming together at the African Packaging Organisation Silent Conference.

In collaboration with the Advanced Institute of Packaging Professionals Nigeria, DHL Express, DHL International Nigeria Limited, and the African Packaging Organisation, the event will feature a Packaging Technology Masterclass—an essential step toward ensuring African goods is globally competitive.

Scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, this hybrid event (virtual and in-person) will provide insights into modern packaging solutions and trade facilitation under AfCFTA.

Africa’s trade future is here, and its success depends on bold action and relentless implementation. The continent is no longer waiting for opportunities; it is creating them.