Anite urges Africa unity under AfCFTA trade pact
Uganda urged African countries to unite under the Continental Free Trade Area to strengthen their position in world markets. Investment Minister Evelyn Anite told officials at a Geneva conference that the trade agreement connects 1.4 billion people across 55 nations and provides leverage to negotiate better economic terms. She said coordinated action helps Africa shift from supplying raw materials to developing manufacturing capacity and innovation centers.
The trade pact took effect in 2021 and removed tariffs on 9 of 10 products traded between member states. Economists estimate the arrangement could push the continent’s combined economic output beyond 3.4 trillion dollars. Anite said collective bargaining power allows African governments to secure outcomes that support job creation and shared economic gains across the region.
