WEEKLY INFORMATION
1 JUNE, 2022.
Rights Groups Call for Probe into Deadly Morocco Border Crossing.
A rights group has accused Morocco's security forces of using "unjustified" violence against migrants trying to force their way through a border fence between the North African country and the Spanish enclave of Melilla. Deutsche Welle reports that around 2,000 people attempted to storm the border fence on Friday June 24, 2022. They were stopped by security forces on either side of the barrier. https://allafrica.com/view/group/main/main/id/00082582.html
Growing Resilient MSMEs in Africa for a Sustainable Future'.
On this World Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (#MSMEs) day we recognize that the world cannot achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development without resilient MSMEs. MSMEs are "today's bush and tomorrow's forest" (Zambian proverb). Globally, MSMEs make up over 90 percent of all firms, employ more than 70 percent of the population and contribute about 50 percent of #GDP according to the International Council for Small Businesses (ICSB).This trend is mirrored in Ghana where #MSMEs account for almost 70 percent of the GDP. By providing goods and services, jobs, livelihoods and government revenue, #SMEs help to eradicate poverty and contribute to the achievement of all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
https://allafrica.com/stories/202206290266.html
Sanwo-Olu tasks #MSMEs on #digitalisation to harness #AfCFTA benefits.
Governor of Lagos, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has tasked operators of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to embrace digitalisation to maximise the advantages of the already implemented African Continental Free Trade Area (#AFCFTA).
https://guardian.ng/news/sanwo-olu-tasks-msmes-on-digitalisation-to-harness-afcfta-benefits/
Experts emphasize private sector’s role in unlocking #AfCFTA benefits.
The fundamental role of the private sector in accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was highlighted at a high-level event jointly organized by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Office Ethiopia/AU. https://guardian.ng/business-services/experts-emphasize-private-sectors-role-in-unlocking-afcfta-benefits/
How Nigeria's Petrol Crisis Inspired Locally Produced Electric Bicycles #AfricaClimateCrisis While electric vehicles could help to make the transition away from fossil fuels much faster, the changes needed to reduce emissions and avoid some of the absolute worst effects of the climate emergency require changes that are more far reaching. https://allafrica.com/view/group/main/main/id/00082538.html
#AfDB seeks $200m from G7 for Africa’s food intervention.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) is seeking $200 million from Germany and other members of G-7 countries to “urgently” address food crisis in the continent.
https://guardian.ng/news/afdb-seeks-200m-from-g7-for-africas-food-intervention/
Tanzania hits traders with nearly double export fees.
Tanzania has doubled the cost of export permits by 93 percent, a move likely to open another round of trade dispute between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. The authorities in Tanzania have increased the cost of acquiring export permits from the previous Sh27,000 per truck to Sh52,000, according to border officials.
WEEKLY INFORMATION
24 JUNE, 2022.
Angola overtakes Nigeria as Africa’s biggest oil producer, as oil trades at $120.
Nigeria is no longer Africa’s top oil producer following an abysmal oil production output in May the biggest decline among its peers at a time oil was trading at $121.33. The latest update will further deepen Nigeria’s financial crisis as it means, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) could spend a huge percentage of its meagre export income to pay for its fuel importation. https://www.ripplesnigeria.com/angola-overtakes-nigeria-as-africas-biggest-oil-producer-as-oil-trades-at-120/
Progress Made in Over 40 countries and RECs on AfCFTA National and Regional Strategies.
The Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), Economic Community of Central Africa States (ECCAS) and the Economic Community of West Africa States (#ECOWAS) were all supported by ECA Sub-regional Offices (SROs) to actualize the frameworks of the #AfCFTA as well as regional goals.
National Meeting on Ratification and Domestication of IGAD Protocol on Transhumance and Drafting of Pastoral Codes.
Following this meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Sudan, Hon. Mayiik Ayii Deng, signed the IGAD protocols on free movement of persons and transhumance, in the company of the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Hon. Onyoti Adigo.
https://icpald.org/ratification-transhumance-protocol/
Gambia to Host Voice Business Summit Awards 2022.
Speaking to reporters at a local hotel in Kololi, Pastor Amb. Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh, a publisher and editor-in-chief of the Voice Magazine, disclosed that The Gambia Voice Business Summit & Awards (GVBSA) 2022 will be hosted in The Gambia.
https://foroyaa.net/gambia-to-host-voice-business-summit-awards-2022%ef%bf%bc/
‘Over 90% of African CEOs confident AfCFTA will have positive impact on businesses’. A new survey by the Pan-African Private Sector Trade and Investment Committee (PAFTRAC) says just 4 per cent of participants believe that the #AfCFTA will have, or has already had, a negative impact on their businesses.
The African Union Annual Small and Medium Enterprises Forum.
Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are highly important drivers of economic growth and development and job creation in African economies.
https://au.int/en/newsevents/20220627/african-union-annual-small-and-medium-enterprises-forum
“The AfCFTA will have a positive effect on intra-African trade levels, as early as 2022-23” say respondents of pan-African trade survey.
For the third year running, the Pan-African Private Sector Trade and Investment Committee (PAFTRAC) (PAFTRAC.AfreximBank.com) have partnered with African Business magazine for the Africa CEO Trade Survey. (https://bit.ly/3tGmF9p). The survey aims to provide the African private sector with a unified voice in informing trade policy at the continental and regional level.
Ivory Coast: Economic, political actors engage as Africa CEO forum kicks off.
More than 1,800 participants, including heads of states, and several hundred leaders of the largest African and international companies, are gathered in Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) for the Africa CEO Forum 2022.
WEEKLY INFORMATION
17 JUNE, 2022.
Afreximbank Calls for Increased Intra-African Trade and Financing.
Pan-African multilateral finance institution, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), is calling for an increase in intra-African trade and financing on the back of the continent’s youth and technology resources.
Women in Blue Economy Workshop.
The African Union Commission through its Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE) is organizing the Women in Blue Economy Workshop under the theme ‘Unlocking Africa’s Greatest Assets’ in a hybrid format.
WHEN: 16th -17th June 2022 Official opening ceremony of the workshop: Thursday 16 June 2022 at 11:00EAT.
WHERE: Abuja, Republic of Nigeria (John Wood Hotel by Bolton)
https://au.int/en/newsevents/20220616/women-blue-economy-workshop
Nigeria, others lose $5 billion yearly to intra-African trade bottlenecks.
The Chief Executive Officer, Pan African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) Afreximbank, Mike Ogbalu, has stated that African businesses lose over $5 billion every year to charges, payments and other related costs to intra-African trade barriers.
The African Union Annual Small And Medium Enterprises Forum.
Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are highly important drivers of economic growth and development and job creation in African economies.
https://au.int/en/newsevents/20220627/african-union-annual-small-and-medium-enterprises-forum
More free trade will not solve the food crisis.
The global food system, sustained by free trade agreements and bilateral investment treaties, is failing once again in the face of significant disruptions.
https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2022/6/7/more-free-trade-will-not-solve-the-food-crisis
Sustainability for startups
#Sustainability in business has become an increasingly relevant topic over the past couple of years. https://lnkd.in/gFKrC8Kw
Regional Assembly Roots for Business Friendly Laws.
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) has laid emphasis on creating laws that will improve the business environment in the region.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202206060177.html
Safaricom’s M-Pesa, Visa offer virtual card for global transactions.
The M-Pesa Global Pay Visa Virtual card will allow users to securely pay 100 million foreign merchants like Amazon and Alibaba from their mobile phones, without the need for credit cards or accounts with processors such as #PayPal.
WEEKLY INFORMATION
10 JUNE, 2022.
ECOWAS pursues common regional position on the African Continental Free Trade Area protocol on competition policy.
The ECOWAS Commission/ ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority organised the 1st (Virtual) Regional Meeting on the African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA) draft Protocol on the Competition Policy with #ECOWAS Member States on Friday 27th May 2022 to adopt common positions, consistent with regional and national Competition frameworks in West Africa. https://guardian.ng/apo-press-releases/ecowas-pursues-common-regional-position-on-the-african-continental-free-trade-area-protocol-on-competition-policy/
Launch of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Days in Africa.
The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana and the European Union, has launched an initiative for UNCITRAL Days in Africa at an event in Accra.
ECOWAS Pursues Common Regional Position On the AfCFTA Protocol.
The ECOWAS Commission/ ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority organized the 1st (Virtual) Regional Meeting on the African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA) draft Protocol on the Competition Policy with #ECOWAS Member States on Friday 27th May 2022 to adopt common positions, consistent with regional and national Competition frameworks in West Africa.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202206010168.html
'Lifting Ban On Imports Commitment to AfCFTA'
The Government's lifting of the import ban on selected basic commodities is testimony to the country's readiness and commitment to fully implement the dictates of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement to which Zimbabwe is a signatory.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205270320.html
Growing Intra-Africa Trade Through Digital Transformation of #Customs and #Borders.
The digital transformation of customs and borders in Africa could improve efficiencies in processes, such as administration at customs and borders, and yield trade gains on the continent of $20 billion a year.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205260098.html
'United Africa Can Do More'.
Africa's successful response to challenges it faced in the past few years is testimony of what the continent can achieve if its people work together, the chairperson of the African Union Commission Mr Moussa Faki Mahamat said in a statement to mark Africa Day.... https://allafrica.com/stories/202205260339.html
WEEKLY INFORMATION
3 JUNE, 2022.
Kagame Pushes for AfCFTA Full Realization at WEF
@PresidentPaulKagame has said that even with the current trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, there is need to tackle a number of things, especially non-tariff barriers. https://allafrica.com/stories/202205260208.html
Potential trade in Africa estimated at three trillion dollars. The African continent is estimated to have a three-trillion-dollar market opportunity through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreements.
https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/potential-trade-in-africa-estimated-at-three-trillion-dollars/
The Consumer Protection and Competition Policy Branch of the United Nations. Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is launching a set of recommendations on how to enhance access of MSMEs to the digital marketplace entitled “Behavioral Recommendations for Digital Platforms” on Wednesday 1 June 2022 13:00-14:30 CET.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kEBe-LIGQvmgFFiz_iBSlw
New Tool to Measure Ease of Inter-Africa Trade Launched. The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) on Sunday, May 15, launched the first-ever comprehensive tool that measures how easy, or hard, it is to do business between African countries.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205170026.html
African Countries Urged To Modernize National Statistical Systems.
The Covid19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of African national statistical systems, pointing to the need to transform and modernize national statistical systems on the continent. https://ethiopianmonitor.com/2022/05/14/african-countries-urged-to-modernize-statistical-systems/
WEEKLY INFORMATION
27 MAY, 2022.
BPE gives reasons for planned concession of free trade zones.
According to the Director-General, the Roadshow was to showcase the Federal Government’s plan to unlock the potential of two of its assets through the injection of a private sector capital, as well as the deployment of technical expertise.
https://www.today.ng/news/nigeria/bpe-reasons-planned-concession-free-trade-zones-423754
Customs target 4-hour mandatory clearance period at ports.
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA-Customs) is working toward a four-hour mandatory timeframe as the average period to clear goods at the ports beginning next year. https://thebftonline.com/2022/05/16/customs-target-4-hour-mandatory-clearance-period-at-ports/
AfCFTA risks losing its vision without good logistics – Krapa. African countries have been asked to expand their logistics and transportation networks in order to keep the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)’s goal alive, or risk losing its benefit.
https://www.ghanaiantimes.com.gh/afcfta-risks-losing-its-vision-without-good-logistics-krapa/
New CEO of the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD assumes office.
Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas is the first woman to lead the AU agency. The former Head and Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in South Africa, Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas succeeds Dr. Ibrahim Assane Mayaki as CEO of AUDA-NEPAD. She assumed office on May 1st and a CEO handover retreat was convened in Johannesburg, which took place over a period of two days (6 – 7 May), with members of the NEPAD Steering Committee.
Access Corporation unlocking new opportunities for intra- and inter-Africa trade – Herbert Wigwe. Access Holdings Plc; trading as Access Corporation (“the Corporation”) announced today its start of operations, with initial portfolio companies and its future strategy. The Corporation, which builds on Access Bank’s scale and ethical standards, will have portfolio companies with significant complementarities, allowing the ecosystem to walk with customers across their life cycle while delivering value to stakeholders.
WEEKLY INFORMATION
20 MAY, 2022.
Trade promotion agencies can tip the balance towards business resilience and ‘good trade’.
In Ghana, the reference to sustainable trade or a green economy is still a somewhat novel concept to young businesses. It therefore falls within the mandate of agencies such as the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (#GEPA) to break down these conversations to enable micro, small and medium enterprises (#MSMEs) to buy into the concept and adapt these practices for business continuity and success.
https://allafrica.com/view/group/main/main/id/00081508.html
Cross-border Service Integration’ll Boost African Oil & Gas Industry — Briggs.
The chairman of Platform Petroleum Limited, Chief (Barr.) Dumo Lulu Briggs, has admonished that cross-border service integration through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will boost the African oil and gas industry.
ECOWAS holds consultative meetings on Regional Agreement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Implementation Strategy.
With a view to ensuring that that the AfCFTA outcomes are consistent with regional advancements and that the Agreement builds on the ECOWAS acquis, the Commission is accelerating the development of a regional implementation strategy taking a participatory and inclusive approach. To date, twelve (12) ECOWAS Member States have developed or are in the process of developing their national AfCFTA implementation strategy. https://guardian.ng/apo-press-releases/ecowas-holds-consultative-meetings-on-regional-agreement-of-the-african-continental-free-trade-area-afcfta-implementation-strategy/
African policymakers warned against pressure over climate-linked trade rules.
Policymakers in Africa should not bow to pressure to introduce broad climate-linked trade regulations aimed at reducing emissions in the African Continental Free-Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, say trade law experts. Such regulations could prove overly burdensome for African countries that have to rely on fossil fuels to power industrialisation initiatives that would help reduce poverty and unemployment in the world’s least industrialised region, they say...
WEEKLY INFORMATION
13 MAY, 2022.
AfCFTA committee begins development of policies to facilitate trade in Nigeria.
The national action committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) says it has commenced the development of policies in collaboration with relevant export agencies for the free flow of trade in Nigeria.
Informal trade data key to monitoring intra-African trade, says UNECA
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has emphasized the need for trade data to incorporate informal trade in the measurement of intra-African trade in order to get significant value and idea of the true state of affairs among entities.
2022 U.S.-Africa Business Summit to be Hosted in Morocco.
Corporate Council on Africa (#CCA) will organize the next edition of the U.S -Africa Business Summit on July 19 - 22, 2022 in Marrakech, Morocco. The Summit will build on the momentum of last year's virtual Summit, which focused on the unique opportunity for the new U.S. Administration and its African partners to reset and redefine their relationship as they work together to shape the path for economic recovery needed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://allafrica.com/view/group/main/main/id/00081508.html
WEEKLY INFORMATION
6 MAY, 2022.
AfCFTA committee begins development of policies to facilitate trade in Nigeria.
The national action committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) says it has commenced the development of policies in collaboration with relevant export agencies for the free flow of trade in Nigeria.
Informal trade data key to monitoring intra-African trade, says UNECA.
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has emphasized the need for trade data to incorporate informal trade in the measurement of intra-African trade in order to get significant value and idea of the true state of affairs among entities.
2022 U.S.-Africa Business Summit to be Hosted in Morocco.
Corporate Council on Africa (#CCA) will organize the next edition of the U.S -Africa Business Summit on July 19 - 22, 2022 in Marrakech, Morocco. The Summit will build on the momentum of last year's virtual Summit, which focused on the unique opportunity for the new U.S. Administration and its African partners to reset and redefine their relationship as they work together to shape the path for economic recovery needed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://allafrica.com/view/group/main/main/id/00081508.html
Kenya bans importation of secondhand passenger vehicles from July.
KENYA will stop the importation of used passenger mini-buses and large buses from July 1, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) said on Thursday. KEBS managing director Bernard Njiraini said the move follows the implementation of new standards meant to boost safety on the roads as well as support local assemblers who produce over 5,000 units annually.
Malawi, Mozambique Sign Trade Pacts.
Malawi and Mozambique have signed two important trade pacts aimed at unlocking and boosting trade of the two countries. President Lazarus Chakwera, who is currently in Mozambique signed the two pacts on behalf of the government of Malawi.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202204250071.html
WEEKLY INFORMATION
29 April, 2022.
Manufacturers task FG to fasten AfCFTA implementation, tackle FX supply issues.
Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to fasten the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost its industrialisation goals. It also called on the FG to tackle Nigeria’s electricity and interest rate issues to take advantage of tariff-free African trade.
NGX launches exchange-traded derivatives market
Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) says it has launched West Africa’s first exchange-traded derivatives (ETD) market to drive innovation and responds to stakeholders’ needs.
https://www.today.ng/business/markets/ngx-launches-exchange-traded-derivatives-market-418407
Cross-border traders, FBC enter into partnership.
Cross-Border Traders Association (CBTA) and the FBC Bank have entered into a deal that will see the financial institution issuing MasterCards to informal traders. https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/cross-border-traders-fbc-enter-into-partnership/
Côte d'Ivoire signs hosting agreement for intra-African trade fair (IATF2023).
Abidjan, 28 March 2022 – The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2023) will take place from November 21-27, 2023, in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. The Ivorian Government has signed the hosting agreement that officially confirms Côte d'Ivoire as the host country of the trade fair organized by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union (AU) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) Secretariat.
Annual Meetings: 23-27 May, 2022. Accra, Ghana.
Achieving Climate Resilience and a Just Energy Transition for Africa
weekly information
22 APRIL, 2022.
Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Honorable Chipoka Mulenga Launches the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Zambia (CCCZ).
Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Honorable Chipoka Mulenga this morning launched the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Zambia (CCCZ), on behalf of Her Honour, the Vice President of the Republic of Zambia, Mrs. W.K Mutale Nalumango.
https://www.mcti.gov.zm/?p=3068
AfCFTA to aid intra-African trade by 40 per cent, traffic flows.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will boost intra-African trade by around 40 per cent, with substantial benefits to the transport sector, according to the latest estimates by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
DR Congo signs the East African Community treaty, officially joining the block.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is officially the East African Community's seventh member. And this after Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi formally signed the treaty to join the community during his visit to Kenya.
https://www.africanews.com/2022/04/08/dr-congo-joins-the-east-african-community-eac/
Congo, Rwanda sign Agricultural Land Concession Agreement
The Republic of Congo and Rwanda have signed two memorandums of understanding and a concession agreement in the agricultural field.
https://www.africanews.com/2022/04/13/congo-rwanda-sign-agricultural-land-concession-agreement/
Notification of Vacancies at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat..... https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_vacancies-afcftaghana-ugcPost-6922109803179708416-zTb7?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web
Abidjan to host 3rd Intra-African Trade Fair.
The government of Côte d’Ivoire signed the hosting agreement with African Export Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union (AU) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat on Friday, which will officially confer Abidjan as the Host of IATF2023.
weekly information
15 APRIL, 2022.
AfCFTA Projected to Multiply Traffic Flows on all Transport Modes.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will boost intra-African trade by around 40%, with substantial benefits to the transport sectors, according to the latest estimates by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Africa’s aviation sector records revenue loss of $8.2b in 2021, but AfCFTA offers opportunity.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt in the aviation sector in Africa. The sector recorded revenue loss of $8.2 billion in 2021. The loss is approximately 47.2 per cent of the full year 2019 airlines revenue, however the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers opportunities for the transport sector.
DR Congo officially joins the East African Community (EAC).
The Democratic Republic of Congo is expected to join the East African Community on Tuesday in a bid to boost its trade, social cohesion and security. The official ceremony will be held virtually followed by a summit to inaugurate EAC's new member state. Bordering five member states of the organization - Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda and South Sudan - the DRC was assessed from June 25 to July 5 on its level of compliance with the organization.
https://www.africanews.com/2022/03/29/dr-congo-officially-joins-the-east-african-community-eac/
ECOWAS holds consultative meetings on Regional Agreement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Implementation Strategy.
With a view to ensuring that that the AfCFTA outcomes are consistent with regional advancements and that the Agreement builds on the ECOWAS acquis, the Commission is accelerating the development of a regional implementation strategy taking a participatory and inclusive approach. To date, twelve (12) ECOWAS Member States have developed or are in the process of developing their national AfCFTA implementation strategy.
African Scholars Institute to hold Agribusiness Workshop in Abuja.
The International Institute for African Scholars (IIAS) will on Thursday, April 7, 2022, host a workshop on how to transform agricultural produce into secondary products.
weekly information
8 APRIL, 2022.
The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) - The Journey Thus Far….....
In May 2013 at the 50th Anniversary of the African Union, in affirmation of their commitment towards forging a new path for inclusive and sustainable growth and development, heads of states and governments of African nations signed the 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration.
The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (Afcfta) And What It Means For E-Commerce.
Finding a durable solution which would help to improve the living standard in African countries marks the founding reasons of the AfCFTA.
UK Backs Africa’s Ambitious Continental Free Trade Initiative
UK launches programme of up to £35m to support negotiations and implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The AfCTFA is expected to lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty, create jobs, and provide new commercial opportunities for businesses across Africa and the UK.
COVID-19: Ghana Reopens All Its Land And Sea Borders After Two Years.
Ghana has reopened its land and sea borders two years after closing them as a COVID-19 preventive measure. This was announced by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in his 28th #COVID-19 Update as part of measures to curb the spread of the pandemic.
180 Companies to Export to AfCFTA Market
A TOTAL of 180 companies are currently being programmed to export to markets under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
weekly information
1 APRIL, 2022.
Adoption Meeting - Trade Facilitation.
Stakeholders relevant to the Trade Facilitation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement in Nigeria meet with the Secretary of the National Action Committee on the AfCFTA and the Strategy Team, Secretariat of the National Action Committee on the AfCFTA at the Nigerian Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja to finalize discussions on and the adoption of the initiatives and interventions essential for the effective facilitation of trading under the AfCFTA.
COVID-19: Ghana Re-opens all its Land and Sea Borders after Two Years.
Ghana has reopened its land and sea borders two years after closing them as a COVID-19 preventive measure. This was announced by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in his 28th #COVID-19 Update as part of measures to curb the spread of the pandemic.
Ministry of Trade to Support 180 Ghanaian Companies to Take Advantage of Afcfta.
180 Ghanaian companies have been selected to receive support from the Ministry of Trade and Industry to export under Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Extends Validity of Operators’ Licences in Free Trade Zones to Five Years
The Federal Government yesterday, announced a five-year extension for the validity of operators’ licences in free trade zones across the country. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo, explained that the move was to mitigate challenges hindering operators in the zone, noting that the directive is also coming on the heels of the Federal Government’s ease of doing business mandate.
ECOWAS Reiterates Importance of Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Project
The president of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Jean-Claude Kassi Brou has reiterated the importance of the Abidjan-Lagos corridor highway project.
weekly information
25 MARCH, 2022
Draft National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy for Sudan Reviewed and Validated by Stakeholders.
The “Development of national #AfCFTA implementation strategies for Sudan” is part of the regional effort by AU-IBAR/ICPALD /IGAD to develop strategies for participating in the AfCFTA at the national level. The strategy identifies ways of achieving the twin objectives of expanding agricultural exports within the IGAD/COMESA region and exporting high-value products to other RECs.
Africa’s Top Women Entrepreneurs Show Resilience Despite Covid-19
Women-owned businesses are faring better than expected with relatively high levels of resilience despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, a new report funded by the African Development Bank shows.
How South Africa, Ghana and Egypt could reshape the automotive industry in Africa.
By the end of this year, a pioneering three-way Industrial Partnership Agreement between South Africa, Ghana and Egypt could be a reality and the ignition to the rapid industrialisation and growth of the automotive industry in Africa.
Understanding AfCFTA and its effect on the Capital Market
In order to maintain territorial integrity, countries regulate the entry of aliens, foreign goods, services and investments into their territories. Free flow across borders is only possible if there is agreement amongst countries. Such agreements are bilateral if only two countries agree between themselves or multilateral when several countries, regions or continents come into agreement. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is an example of a multilateral free trade agreement.
Entrepreneurships: Rewarded Project Leaders
The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts, Achille Bassilekin lll, chaired yesterday the ceremony of the 2nd edition of the Fonds-Proto Awards.
weekly information
18 MARCH,2022
Zims-big-day-at-Expo-2020-Dubai-arrives
Zimbabwe's big day, the commemorations for the National Day at the on going Expo 2020 Dubai, has arrived
One Year of AfCFTA: What Has Worked, Way Forward
Some described it as a global Game-Changer, the African Continental Free Trade (#AfCFTA), one of the world's largest international free trade areas, started trading under preferential arrangements on January 1, 2021.
AfCFTA slow take-off: Overall benefit ‘ll help member nations –MAN
Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has said the slow pace on the takeoff of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) was largely based on the need for member nations to put in place institutions that will make the implementation seamless. This is even as MAN noted that the scheme has put in place its National Secretariat in Ghana.
Afcfta: Nigerian Exporters Drilled on Coping with Supply Issues to Conquer the African Market.
Nigerian exporters must overcome supply issues if they ever wished to conquer the African market with over 2.5 billion market size (persons). This is as the Nigerian business community must strive to join the export business to earn foreign currency and not only ease the pressure on the nation’s foreign exchange system but to have direct access to hard currency for their own good.
Out of the starting blocks: One year of the AfCFTA
Just over a year has passed since the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) officially started trading on 1st January 2021. The ambitious scheme to revolutionise trade on the continent comprises 54 out of 55 members of the African Union (AU), an area encompassing almost 1.3bn people.....
Egypt Raises Transit Fees for Ships Passing through Suez Canal
Egypt on Tuesday raised transit fees for ships passing through the Suez Canal, one of the world's most important waterways, with increases of up to 10%. The Suez Canal Authority said on its website that the increases were "in line with the significant growth in world trade" and cited the "development and improvement of the transit service" of the canal. According to a statement, transit fees for ships carrying liquefied petroleum gas, chemicals and other liquid bulk products have increased by 10%.
weekly information
11 MAR, 2022
AfCFTA slow take-off: Overall benefit ‘ll help member nations –MAN
Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has said the slow pace on the takeoff of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) was largely based on the need for member nations to put in place institutions that will make the implementation seamless. This is even as MAN noted that the scheme has put in place its National Secretariat in Ghana.
AfCFTA: Nigerian exporters drilled on coping with supply issues to conquer the African market. Nigerian exporters must overcome supply issues if they ever wished to conquer the African market with over 2.5 billion market size (persons). This is as the Nigerian business community must strive to join the export business to earn foreign currency and not only ease the pressure on the nation’s foreign exchange system but to have direct access to hard currency for their own good. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_afcfta-nigerian-exporters-drilled-on-coping-activity-6908009203978371072-iHAo
Out of the starting blocks: One year of the AfCFTA
Just over a year has passed since the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) officially started trading on 1st January 2021. The ambitious scheme to revolutionise trade on the continent comprises 54 out of 55 members of the African Union (AU), an area encompassing almost 1.3bn
Egypt raises transit fees for ships passing through Suez Canal
Egypt on Tuesday raised transit fees for ships passing through the Suez Canal, one of the world's most important waterways, with increases of up to 10%. The Suez Canal Authority said on its website that the increases were "in line with the significant growth in world trade" and cited the "development and improvement of the transit service" of the canal. According to a statement, transit fees for ships carrying liquefied petroleum gas, chemicals and other liquid bulk products have increased by 10%.
Ethiopia, Djibouti ink Sea-Air Logistics Model Deal
The partnership will strengthen regional connectivity by utilizing an innovative multimodal transportation system developed by the Djibouti port and free zone authorities, Air Djibouti, and Ethiopian Airlines,” said Ethiopian foreign Ministry today.
Home Affairs moves ahead with one-stop border post policy for better trade, movement
Plans are afoot to facilitate smooth trading between South Africa and its continental neighbours. The government is upgrading the country's biggest land borders, but there are also legislative moves to implement the One Stop Border Post Policy (OSBP).
Gov’t visits ‘seccos’ to get firsthand information on g/nut trade
The National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation (NFSPMC) formerly Gambia Groundnut Corporation (GGC) in partnership with the Ministries of Agriculture and Finance and Economic Affairs (MOFEA) have embarked on tour to various ‘seccos’ to gain first hand information on the state of the groundnut trade season.
Zimbabwe hosts health investment conference in Dubai
Bring global investors and experts to new business horizons in Zimbabwe 's health care sector is under focus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (#UAE) today, where the country is hosting a Health Investment Forum and Business to Business Meeting.
weekly information
4 MAR. 2022
East Africa: Regional Business Body Calls for Private Sector Involvement in AfCFTA Trade Talks
The East Africa Business Council (EABC) has urged players in the private sector to contribute in informing the regional bloc's negotiations on Trade in Services under the African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA). This is in line with the ongoing development of a strategy on trade-in services by the East African Community (#EAC), which is set to position the bloc better in the negotiations of service liberation at the continental level, according to Peter Mathuki, Secretary-General of EAC.
Use AfCFTA to boost share of global trade – Minister Africa must take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to increase its share of global trade, the Minister of Trade and Industry, John Alan Kyerematen. According to him, Africa controlled only three per cent of global trade, yet it has all the resources to take the lead in global trade.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_use-afcfta-to-boost-share-of-global-trade-activity-6904082432065200128-qn5a CAIRO FASHION & TEX 2022 Exhibition: Men's Wear, Women's Wear, Kids' Wear, Formal Wear, Home Wear, Underwear & Lingerie, Knitwear, Sports Wear, Socks, Leather Wear & Products, Shoes & Bags, Garment Accessories, Textiles, Yarn & Fabric, Machinery, Manufacturing Accessories Date & Location: March 2, 2022 - March 4, 2022. Cairo International Convention Center.
‘Working Relations Key to Continued Africa-Latin-America Ties’ The African Union (AU) Pavilion in collaboration with the Argentine and Mexican Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai rubberstamped the South-South strong influence on the Agriculture, Food security and Climate change sphere, as experts from both the African continent and Latin America (LATAM) convoked to share and report on projects currently employed in the field.
6th European Union - African Union Summit: A Joint Vision for 2030 We welcome the fruitful discussions in the Roundtable Sessions on Financing for sustainable and inclusive growth; Climate change and energy transition, digital and transport (connectivity and infrastructure); Peace, Security and Governance; Private sector support and economic integration; Education, culture and vocational training, migration and mobility; Agriculture and sustainable development; and Health systems and vaccine production held during the Summit. We take note of the contributions by the Youth, Civil Society, Local authorities and private sector during the Africa-Europe Week and the Europe-Africa Business Forum and we encourage all relevant stakeholders to continue to engage towards our renewed Partnership.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_6th-european-union-african-union-summit-activity-6902206102440685569-CNpf SMEs to benefit from AfCFTA as MFS Africa joins PAPSS Millions of semi-formal small and micro-African businesses are to benefit from opportunities in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (#AfCFTA) as MFS Africa, a digital payments network, has announced that it has joined the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) network. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_smes-to-benefit-from-afcfta-as-mfs-africa-activity-6902204580558458880-0OxX
Africa's Transport Sector to Strongly Benefit from African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Addis Ababa, —
African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA) is expected to increase intra-African trade in transport services by nearly 50%, according to the latest estimates by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). The estimates on, 'Implications of the African Continental Free Trade Area for demand for transport, infrastructure and services', released by ECA at the fifth African Business Forum on February 7, indicate that with AfCFTA in absolute terms, over 25% of intra-African trade gains in services would go to transport alone; and nearly 40% of the increase in Africa's services production would be in transport.
One of Nigeria's Biggest and Oldest Construction Companies is Diversifying into Cashew Processing; here's how that is going Julius Berger has diversified into cashew nuts business and is set to unveil its multi-million dollar cashew processing plant in Q2 2022. The company, which is primarily into the construction of roads, bridges and buildings, decided to diversify into agro-processing after taking note of the opportunities there. Cashew nuts are among Nigeria's highest-grossing agric exports, having generated $101.2 million in Q2 2021.
7th PIDA Week: Putting Africa on a Firm Footing for Recovery, Growth, and Resilience through Infrastructure PIDA Week aims to bring together international and regional expertise from multiple stakeholders to deliberate on the issues around infrastructure delivery in Africa, and those related to PIDA. It will focus on how Africa can lead the way in the delivery of infrastructure in a post-COVID era, supporting the economic and social imperatives of the continent in the digital age. Date & Location: The 7th PIDA Week 2021 will be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya through a hybrid format and will take place from 28th February to 4th March 2022.
I confess, I am an AfCFTA sceptic I was asked to speak about the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the ambitious trading agreement that supporters believe will deepen African integration and transform the continent in fundamental ways. #AfCFTAonTRACK #auniquei #trading #afcftatrading #afcftasecretariat My response was that I am sceptical about the #AfCFTA, and the cut-and-paste EU-style regional integration that the continent has been pursuing since the AU treaty came into force in 2002.
Africa Investment Forum Senior Director Chinelo Anohu, #AfCFTA Secretary General discusses EU-Africa cooperation and trade. Ahead of the EU-African Union Summit scheduled for 17-18 February 2022, African thought leaders stressed the importance of trade agreements and regional integration as keys to drive investment into the continent in a discussion organised by the European parliament to discuss Africa’s partnership and cooperation with the #EU.
11 FEB. 2022
TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?
Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana: Should the ‘cocoa OPEC’ believe in Nestlé’s premiums?
#Nestlé is proposing a new system, which aims to increase cocoa farmers’ incomes, fight against child labour and improve bean traceability. Welcomed by #Abidjan and #Accra, the system must prove that it works not only in theory, but also in practice.
Status of AfCFTA Ratification As at January 2022
41 of the 54 signatories (76%) have deposited their instruments of AfCFTA ratification https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_status-of-afcfta-ratification-activity-6897848905271259136-PvB-
Tanzania, Uganda Agree to Cut Non-Tariff Barriers to Ease Trade
Uganda and Tanzania have signed several Memorandum of Understanding including agreements that will see the removal of non-tariff barriers between the two countries as one of the ways to ease trade. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_tanzania-uganda-agree-to-cut-non-tariff-activity-6897840795806760961-jaX6
President Macky Sall Becomes new African Union Chairperson ADDIS ABABA –
Senegal’s President Macky Sall was elected as the African Union’s new chairperson on Saturday. Sall took over the baton of command from Felix- Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), who has concluded his term as the Chairperson of the AU for the year 2021. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_president-macky-sall-becomes-new-african-activity-6896475951732002816-_IRF
The Republic of Cabo Verde became the forty-first (41st) to deposit the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
The Republic of Cabo Verde became the forty-first (41st) State Party to deposit the instrument of ratification of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA). https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_the-republic-of-cabo-verde-became-the-forty-first-activity-6896472217559941120-aymf
New Transit ; Terminal A Boost For AFCFTA – Mad. Stella Wilson
The Ghana Shippers Authority in partnership with the Jomoro Municipal Assembly has constructed a 20-acre parking terminal at Ghana’s border with Cote D’Ivoire to improve transit for freight. Statistics indicate that trade volumes along the western border, which connects Ghana to Ivory Coast and neighbouring West African countries, have seen significant improvement in terms of haulage trucks. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_new-transit-terminal-a-boost-for-afcfta-activity-6896469498237472768-GnZf
Confusion reigns in the #border between #Uganda and #Rwanda Rwandans were complaining that they were not allowed to cross while Ugandans were also reporting delays at the Gatuna border post. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_confusion-reigns-in-the-border-between-uganda-activity-6895352970859433984-UxTw
Localisation is nothing more than protectionism Official policy threatens SA’s participation in #AfCFTA and could contravene our trade law obligations under the #WTO
Chamber of Commerce decries unemployment, poverty
Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) young Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) have raised the alarm over high rate of youth unemployment, multidimensional poverty and all manner of social vices perpetrated mostly by young people in the country.
‘AfCFTA success dependent on govt investment, OPS participation’
The Federal Government, in collaboration with Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA), has announced plans to boost intra-Africa trade currently at 13 per cent, noting that with African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) in full force, African governments must invest heavily in large-scale innovations and technology that would drive economic success and trade on the continent. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_afcfta-success-dependent-on-govt-investment-activity-6892769304312467456-aK6J
WEEKLY INFORMATION
21 JAN. 2022
US Billionaire Opens COVID, Cancer Vaccine Plant in South Africa
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (C-L) and South African-born American billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong cut the ribbon during the launch of NantSA, a future vaccine manufacturing facility, in Cape Town, South Africa, Jan. 19, 2022.
Cote d'Ivoire to Host 2023 Inter-African Trade Fair
The 2023 Inter-African Trade Fair (#IATF), which is meant to promote trade and investment in Africa, has been scheduled to hold in Abidjan in Cote d'Ivoire.
An initiative of #Afreximbank, the programme would be organised in collaboration with the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (#AfCFTA) and hosted by the government of Cote d'Ivoire.
One year after, AfCFTA still in limbo
One year after the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA), which came into force on January 1, 2021, Nigeria continues to lag behind in making the trade agreement operational owing to structural challenges, Coronavirus pandemic and lack of consensus on trade protocols and strategy among stakeholders.
One year of free trading in Africa calls for celebration despite teething problems
Free trading under the auspices of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) officially started in January 2021. One year later, several aspects of the trade pact are being successfully implemented as negotiations are ongoing in other areas. In part one of this interview with Kingsley Ighobor, the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat Mr. Wamkele Mene discusses progress, ongoing negotiations and provides a sneak peek of what to expect in 2022.
5 priorities for Africa in 2022
1. Meeting the challenge of vaccine equity
2. Preparing for Africa’s growing global role
3. Harnessing opportunities afforded by Africa Continental Free Trade Area
4. Accelerating Africa’s digital transformation
5. Financing Africa’s green transition
read the full details here............https://lnkd.in/gSy2FfVG
Pan-Africa Payment & Settlement System (#PAPSS) Commercial Launch.
Date & Location: 13 January, 2022. Accra Ghana.
A solution to unlock intra-African trade, investment, and industrialization, the scheme has had a quiet first year.
AfCFTA is an ambitious trade pact to form the world’s largest free trade area by connecting almost 1.3bn people across 54 African countries. The agreement aims to create a single market for goods and services in order to deepen the economic integration of Africa…………..
Truckers’ Covid-19 test impasse resolved on EAC
Ministers talks Long-distance transporters have suspended their strike after Uganda government halted mandatory Covid-19 test of truck drivers at its borders following the East African Community (EAC) member states' inter-ministerial meeting.
Covid-19 Charges Turn into Non-Tariff Barrier to EAC Trade
Covid-19-charges-turn-into-non-tariff-barrier-to-eac-trade…………more details……fellow….the link…..https://www.linkedin.com/posts/auniquei-b03a7a205_covid-19-charges-turn-into-non-tariff-barrier-activity-6887003613730893824-WDN6
AfCFTA’ll turn Nigeria to dumping ground without border checks, FG agencies warn
The AfCFTA Nigeria office and the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, both agencies of the Federal Government, warned that the seeming absence of quarantine checks at some points of entry into the country would lead to the infiltration of unwholesome products.
Gambia employs leverage for agric products in China/ Gambia uses diplomacy as agric products still disallowed in China
DPS Jammeh noted that the Chinese authorities reviewed it and sent a questionnaire regarding those products. “The whole idea is to know whether the products are safe for human consumption and those answers were provided and resubmitted to the Chinese authorities.”
China rejects claims it is trapping Africa in debt
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday rejected suggestions that Beijing was luring African countries into debt traps by offering them massive loans, dismissing the idea as a “narrative” pushed by opponents to poverty reduction.
IATF 2021/2023 Press Conference
Date: 14 January, 2022
Time: 09:30am GMT
AU, Afreximbank, AfCFTA inaugurate Pan-African payment, settlement systems
The African Union, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and AfCFTA have inaugurated the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), thereby making it available for use by the public.
Egypt’s 4th edition of World Youth Forum kicks off in Sharm el Sheikh
CAIRO – 10 January 2022: Egypt’s 4th edition of the World Youth Forum [WYF] kicked off, Monday with the participation of Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al Sisi, Lebanon’s Prime Minster Najib Mikati Crown Prince of Jordan Hussein bin Abdullah II.