This choice highlights the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is seen as a key lever to strengthen economic integration and sustainable development across the continent.
The opening of the session was marked by speeches from senior officials, including the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who emphasized that « economic integration is essential to transforming our economies and improving the well-being of our populations.
Part of the discussions focused on the progress of projects aimed at strengthening regional integration through the AfCFTA, but also on the persistent challenges of insufficient infrastructure, non-tariff barriers, and the slow adoption of the necessary mechanisms to facilitate this integration.
Finance ministers particularly discussed the need to boost intra-African investments and the importance of exploring innovative financing mechanisms to support development projects, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and sustainable development.
There were also discussions on the challenges posed by climate change, with talks on implementing policies to build economic resilience to the impacts of this global phenomenon. The Deputy Executive Secretary of the ECA, Antonio Pedro, emphasized: « Industrialization and economic diversification are essential to reducing Africa’s vulnerability to external shocks. »
A central topic in the discussions was the role of African youth, who are called to play a major role in the economic integration process. Representatives from various countries highlighted the need to ensure that the AfCFTA benefits the continent’s youth by creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship. It was affirmed that African youth represent a critical engine for the future of economic integration, but it is vital to provide them with the necessary tools and conditions to thrive.
According to projections, Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to grow by 3.8% in 2025 and 4.1% in 2026… Growth that is considered insufficient for achieving truly social, inclusive, and sustainable development
The ECA’s economic report also provided perspectives on Africa’s GDP growth. According to projections, Africa’s GDP is expected to grow by 3.8% in 2025 and 4.1% in 2026. However, while these figures indicate a recovery, the growth is considered insufficient to achieve truly social, inclusive, and sustainable development. The report also revealed that while intra-African trade has progressed, its contribution to GDP has decreased, raising the need to strengthen economic integration within the continent to maximize its benefits.
Ministers emphasized that climate change threatens to undermine the continent’s economic achievements, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure. It was recommended to adopt adaptation and mitigation policies to protect the progress made in these areas.
The President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, reminded participants: « Investing in agriculture and rural infrastructure is crucial to ensuring food security and stimulating economic growth. »
Meanwhile, the 57th session of the ECA helped reinforce the commitment of African countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth while underscoring the need to strengthen regional integration to fully capitalize on the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA.
These resolutions and commitments mark significant milestones for the development of Africa and its place in the global economy.