Eswatini’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade is hosting a crucial meeting with the country’s private sector to unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The African Union’s AfCFTA Secretary General, Wamkele Mene, leads the Secretariat delegation aiming to empower Eswatini’s businesses to tap into the vast African market.
This $3.4 trillion economic powerhouse boasts a population of 1.3 billion, offering immense opportunities for Eswatini’s exporters.
“We are honored to host Secretary General Mene and the AfCFTA Secretariat,” said Principal Secretary Siboniso Nkambule (represented by Under Secretary Cebile Nhlabatsi) at the Royal Villas meeting. “This engagement aligns perfectly with Eswatini’s recently launched National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy.”
This strategic roadmap aims to maximize Eswatini’s benefits under the agreement, targeting a significant 10% annual growth in regional exports. The strategy proposes a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure informed decision-making and course correction when needed.
To spearhead this ambitious plan, the creation of a National AfCFTA Implementation Committee and its sub-committees is on the table. This dedicated body will oversee the action plan and its monitoring framework, ensuring Eswatini harnesses the full potential of the AfCFTA.
