The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has issued a strong call for renewed political commitment and collective action to fast-track Africa’s economic integration. Speaking on Africa Integration Day, commemorated annually on July 7, Youssouf addressed Africans across the continent and the diaspora, emphasizing that deeper collaboration is vital to navigating current global economic uncertainties.
The annual event marks the 2019 launch of the operational phase of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in Niamey, Niger. It serves as a yearly celebration of the continent’s vision for shared prosperity, unity, and self-reliance. Amid an increasingly fragmented global economy, Youssouf stated that unifying African markets has transitioned from a long-term goal into an immediate necessity.
Unlocking a 3.4 Trillion Dollar Market
The AfCFTA unites a massive market of 55 countries, over 1.3 billion people, and a combined GDP of roughly US$3.4 trillion. Despite this immense scale, intra-African trade currently accounts for only 16 to 18 percent of the continent’s total trade volume. The Chairperson stressed that Africa’s most significant economic opportunities lie within its own borders rather than foreign markets.
“African unity is our greatest strategic asset,” stated AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. “The AfCFTA is the defining economic project of our generation and our best opportunity to transform Africa’s immense potential into prosperity for all Africans.”
To bridge the trade gap, Youssouf called on Member States to dismantle existing trade barriers, harmonize regional regulations, and aggressively fund cross-border infrastructure. He noted that roads, railways, ports, energy systems, and digital networks are foundational elements required to build regional value chains and sustain long-term industrialization.
Driving Youth Opportunity and Free Movement
Beyond infrastructure and goods, the AU leader highlighted the free movement of people as a non-negotiable pillar for a successful continental market. He urged member nations to progressively implement the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, which would ease mobility for entrepreneurs, traders, professionals, and students, thereby driving cross-border innovation and investment.
The Chairperson concluded by stressing that the broader integration agenda must yield visible, life-changing opportunities for young people, women, farmers, and small businesses. He reaffirmed that the African Union Commission remains dedicated to working alongside Member States to turn the continental ambitions of Agenda 2063 into real benefits for every African citizen.
“History will judge this generation not by the vision it inherited, but by the Africa it succeeds in building together,” Youssouf said. “Let us move forward with unity, determination and confidence towards an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent.”
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