From 18th-19th February 2025, top trade experts, policymakers, private sector leaders, and development partners convened at the UNECA Conference Hall, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to chart a bold path forward for AfCFTA implementation under the theme: Domestication as an Accelerator for AfCFTA Implementation: The Catalytic Role of Capacity Building
Key Takeaways:
- Needs and scientific evidence based Capacity building is the cornerstone of AfCFTA implementation. We must bridge infrastructure institutional, regulatory, administrativeand technical gaps to unlock Africa’s trade potential.
- Strengthening partnerships between governments, RECs, private sector, and development partners will accelerate trade policy harmonisation and infrastructure development.
- Technology and digital trade solutions will streamline customs, improve trade intelligence, and boost cross-border commerce.
- MSMEs, women, and youth must be at the heart of AfCFTA implementation, ensuring inclusive economic growth.
- Collaboration, coordination, and knowledge-sharing are vital for successful AfCFTA domestication and implementation.
Action Forward:
- Scale up capacity-building programs to equip policymakers and businesses with the skills to navigate trade agreements.
- Strengthen trade data analytics and policy coherence to remove trade barriers.
- Leverage digital infrastructure and fintech solutions for seamless intra-Africa trade.
- Establish a sustainable funding and coordination mechanisms to support trade capacity development across Africa.
A huge thank you to all partners, speakers, and delegates who contributed to shaping Africa’s trade future! Special appreciation to AfCFTA Secretariat, AfDB, UNECA-ATPC, ESAMI-trapca, Sida, WTO, RECs, and private sector representatives for their commitment to making AfCFTA work for all Africans. 
Let’s keep the momentum going! 
