Despite the optimistic tone at the African Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana, business leaders expressed frustration with logistical barriers hindering cross-border trade. MTN’s Ebenezer Asante urged policymakers to end “the tyranny of sovereignty” hindering seamless trade within West Africa. He emphasized leveraging technology and open borders for continental progress. Travel remains a challenge, with speakers highlighting visa complexities and inefficient air routes. President Akufo-Addo promised visa-free entry for Africans to Ghana, while transport infrastructure improvements like the Lagos-Abidjan corridor are seen as crucial. Financial systems pose another hurdle, with 44 currencies and disparate payment systems limiting trade and pushing transactions outside formal channels. UBA’s Marufatu Abiola Bawuah shared sanctions encountered while trying to facilitate cross-border payments. The message was clear: implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area requires addressing these issues comprehensively. The current 17% intra-African trade lags other continents, hindering economic goals and regional value chain development. Only with freer movement of goods, money, and people can Africa unlock its full trade potential.
