AfCFTA Protocol on digital trade: A game-changer for Africa’s economy

Stanley Ihedigbo

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, in partnership with the Republic of Zambia, recently concluded the inaugural AfCFTA Digital Trade and Services Forum in Lusaka, Zambia.

The three-day forum brought together Heads of State and Government, Ministers, the private sector, development partners, and innovators from across the continent and beyond.

The forum, convened under the theme “Boosting Digital Trade to Accelerate AfCFTA Implementation,” served as a platform for fostering partnership and the exchange of ideas to fast-track the implementation of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade. The protocol, adopted in record time, lays a solid foundation for a single African digital market.

The forum was honoured by the presence of President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Duma Boko,and , President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema.

Both Heads of State featured in the Presidential Plenary, alongside the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, H.E. Wamkele Mene, to discuss how the continent can unlock the immense potential of digital trade as a vehicle for growth, innovation, and inclusion.

President Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading force in Africa’s digital transformation, calling for stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector to ensure inclusive growth through digital trade. H.E. Mene stressed the urgency of collective action in building digital infrastructure, securing investment, and scaling up innovation.

The forum marked a significant milestone in Africa’s journey toward building a unified digital economy. The AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade has been widely heralded as one of the most forward-looking legal instruments on the continent, providing a framework for digital trade integration and cooperation among African countries.

The forum’s conclusion sends a clear message that Africa is committed to harnessing the potential of digital trade to drive economic growth, innovation, and inclusion. As the continent continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, the AfCFTA remains a beacon of hope for Africa’s economic future.