President John Dramani Mahama has underscored the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in driving economic growth and prosperity across the continent.

Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, Mahama described AfCFTA as a game-changing initiative that could create the largest free trade area in the world, unlocking vast opportunities for African businesses, entrepreneurs, and industries.

“One of the most transformative initiatives of our time is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

With the potential to create the largest free trade area in the world, AfCFTA represents a game-changing opportunity for African businesses, entrepreneurs, and industries,” Mahama stated.

However, he cautioned that trade liberalisation alone is not enough to fully realise AfCFTA’s benefits.

He outlined three critical actions needed to ensure the initiative’s success:

1. Investing in Infrastructure

Mahama called for major investments in roads, rail networks, ports, and digital connectivity to facilitate seamless trade across Africa.

2. Strengthening Intra-African Supply Chains

He emphasised the importance of ensuring that African industries produce competitive goods and services that meet both regional and global standards.

3. Harmonising Trade Policies

To create a seamless trading environment, Mahama urged African nations to eliminate non-tariff barriers and reduce cross-border business costs.

“Committing to these actions can unlock a $3.4 trillion market, creating jobs and prosperity for millions of Africans,” he remarked.

The APD 2025 brought together leaders and stakeholders to discuss strategies for achieving sustainable development and economic growth in Africa.

Mahama’s speech reinforced AfCFTA’s role in transforming Africa’s economy and called for collaborative efforts to make this vision a reality.