GNCCI Endorses AfCFTA’S Business Visa Initiative, to Promote Trade Efficiency
In a move toward advancing intra-African trade, the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) paid a courtesy call on H. E. Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, in Accra on March 24, 2025. This high-level engagement, led by GNCCI President Mr. Stephane Miezan, established a renewed commitment and strategic collaboration to overcome longstanding trade challenges and accelerate economic integration across the continent.
Mr. Stephane Miezan opened the meeting by outlining the pressing issues that continue to hinder Africa’s trade potential. He noted that high logistics costs, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and cumbersome border procedures remain significant obstacles to seamless business operations across African countries. Emphasizing the need to transition from government-led “guided trade” initiatives to a model driven by a dynamic private sector, Mr. Miezan stressed that true growth will come when businesses are engaged and empowered to lead the conversation.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of key regional corridors—most notably, the Lagos-Abidjan route—as engines of cross-border economic integration. “Developing such corridors is not just about building infrastructure; it’s about unlocking new markets and opportunities for our businesses,” he remarked.
H.E. Wamkele Keabetswe responded by affirming the AfCFTA Secretariat’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for trade across Africa. He explained that the AfCFTA Free Movement Protocol—designed to facilitate the movement of persons, residence, and establishment—has been signed by 33 African countries. However, only four countries (Rwanda, Niger, Mali, and São Tomé and Príncipe) have ratified the protocol, a challenge that the Secretariat is actively addressing.
Further reinforcing the commitment to inclusive growth, H.E. Mene detailed plans for a comprehensive Women and Youth Protocol. In partnership with key stakeholders, including UNDP and UN Women, this initiative will enhance the participation and empowerment of women and young entrepreneurs within the AfCFTA framework.
Looking ahead, H.E. Mene shared news of two major events scheduled for 2025: the West Africa Primary Sector Conference in Lomé, Togo (April 8–9) and a complementary forum in South Africa. These events will serve as crucial platforms for Chambers of Commerce across Africa to exchange ideas, cement partnerships, and chart a clear path toward a unified and prosperous African market.
