Central African leaders adopt roadmap to advance AfCFTA implementation

During a regional conference in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, from October 21 to 23, Central African trade ministers and government representatives adopted the “Brazzaville Declaration.” This document serves as a roadmap for the 2027–2030 period, focusing on advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation.

A primary objective of the declaration is to increase the participation of women and young people in intra-African trade. This includes implementing the AfCFTA Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade and establishing a regional SaZLECAf network to connect entrepreneurs with business support services and trade information.

Key priorities outlined in the agreement include: • Implementing simplified trade regimes at borders within the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). • Applying AfCFTA tariff concessions and facilitating the formalization of small-scale cross-border trade. • Strengthening trade financing mechanisms and expanding access to guarantees for small and medium-sized enterprises. • Mapping women-led businesses and exporters by sector and trade corridor.

During the event, AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene met with President Denis Sassou N’Guesso to provide an update on the continental market. Mene recognized the Republic of Congo as one of the first nations to ratify the agreement.