Africa’s growth game-changer: how AfCFTA can unlock economic potential

This seminar explores the challenges and benefits of implementing the AfCFTA, highlighting the trade-offs between growth and inclusive growth.

Date: 2024-09-06

Time: 11:00 to 12:00

Venue: Online via Zoom

Africa’s overreliance on a narrow range of products for manufacturing and trade makes it vulnerable to external shocks and restricts development and poverty reduction. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could transform Africa's trade landscape, reduce the exposure to external shocks, diversify exports and boost economic performance.

The seminar will explore progress and problems associated with implementing the AfCFTA, highlighting the trade-offs between growth and inclusive growth. Discussions will draw on the latest ISS African Futures study, which models the impact of full AfCFTA implementation.

This seminar is co-hosted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and AUDA-NEPAD. It is the fourth and final event in the Erudite series on Forecasting African futures: empowering African Union (AU) member states.

Moderator: Mahao Mahoa, Advisor to the African Policy Bridge Tank Programme, AUDA-NEPAD

Presenter: Dr Blessing Chipanda, Senior Researcher, African Futures & Innovation, ISS

Panelists:

Dr Jean-Bertrand Azapmo, Principal Adviser to the AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, African Union Commission 

Thembekile Mlangeni, Director of Market Access, Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition