Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on African leaders to demonstrate strong collective will and take decisive action to ensure the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogue (APD 2025) on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang addressed over 4,000 delegates and more than eight Heads of State, emphasizing that AfCFTA presents a transformative opportunity for Africa’s economic growth.

However, she stressed that its success hinges on the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders.

“The success of the single market depends on our collective will and decisive action. We must accelerate progress to ensure that Africa’s gains are realized for this generation and the future ones,” she stated.

She urged policymakers, business leaders, and development partners to prioritize cooperation, share ideas, and work towards the seamless integration of African economies.

According to her, eliminating trade barriers, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in digital connectivity will be critical in unlocking the full potential of the single market.

“As we engage in today’s sessions, I encourage all of us to collaborate, exchange ideas, and push Africa closer to a fully integrated market,” she added.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further emphasized that a fully operational AfCFTA would not only boost intra-African trade but also drive industrialization, create jobs, and position Africa as a competitive global economic powerhouse.