VP rallies African leaders to take advantage of AfCFTA to develop

The Vice President of Ghana, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has rally African leaders to take advantage of the single market created by African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to develop.

Speaking at the 3rd Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2025 in Accra, she challenged African leaders to take decisive action in driving the single market agenda, stressing that the continent’s economic success hinges on their collective will and commitment.

“As we engage in these discussions, let us work together, network, collaborate, and share ideas that move us closer to a fully integrated African market,” she concluded.

Prof  Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that unlocking Africa’s economic potential requires strong partnerships between governments and the private sector.

Delivering a keynote address on the theme "Delivering Africa’s Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest, Connect, Integrate," Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that Africa’s fragmented markets hinder trade and economic growth. She noted that despite the continent’s 1.4 billion population and a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion, much of its potential remains untapped due to barriers that restrict free trade and investment.

“Integration is not just a theoretical concept; it is a lifeline to our collective future,” she said. “By breaking down barriers and creating a single market, we can unlock immense opportunities, create jobs for our youth, and lift millions out of poverty.”

She commended the AfCFTA Secretariat, headquartered in Accra, and the Africa Prosperity Network for fostering dialogue between leaders from the public and private sectors. The Vice President also emphasized the critical role of women in Africa’s trade sector, stating that they dominate cross-border business but face unnecessary obstacles, including restrictive regulations and inadequate infrastructure.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stressed the urgent need for investment in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure, which she described as the backbone of a successful single market. She noted that while African governments have traditionally shouldered infrastructure development, stronger collaboration with the private sector is essential to bridging the continent’s infrastructure gaps.

“In Ghana, we have made significant strides, from modernizing our ports and airports to expanding road and railway networks. Our investments in energy infrastructure also aim to ensure reliable and affordable power for industries and households,” she stated, adding that Africa must scale up digital financial solutions like mobile money interoperability to facilitate seamless transactions across borders.

The Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2025, a key platform for economic and policy discussions, has attracted business leaders, policymakers, and development partners, all focused on advancing Africa’s economic integration.