President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has reiterated the urgent need for massive infrastructure investment to unlock the full potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Speaking during a meeting in Accra with AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene, the President emphasized that Africa’s economic integration depends heavily on building robust transport networks, such as roads and railways, alongside seamless digital connectivity to support trade across the continent.
Wamkele Mene’s courtesy visit was aimed at briefing President John Mahama on the current progress and challenges facing the AfCFTA, which remains the world’s largest free trade zone connecting over 1.3 billion people. Mene praised President Mahama for his longstanding leadership and critical role as the former Chair of the African Union High-Level Trade Committee, which helped shape and launch the agreement. He also expressed appreciation for Mahama’s continued commitment to the AfCFTA’s objectives and his willingness to support the Secretariat’s work to advance Africa’s economic integration agenda.
The AfCFTA, which officially commenced in 2021, seeks to boost intra-African trade, reduce trade barriers, and drive economic growth across African markets. However, policymakers and experts widely acknowledge that achieving its transformative impact requires substantial and coordinated investment in infrastructure to lower trade costs and increase competitiveness. The President’s
renewed call for investment highlights a shared vision to create a more connected, competitive, and prosperous Africa through strategic partnerships and sustained commitment.
