African Leaders Discuss Regional Trade at Africa Business Forum 2025. President Duma Gideon Boko participated in a high-level presidential dialogue on regional value chain development under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement at the Africa Business Forum 2025. The event took place on the sidelines of the African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa.
Moderated by former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, the discussion brought together key African leaders and economic experts to examine strategies for strengthening regional trade integration. The panelists included Alexandre Barro Chambrier, Deputy Prime Minister of Gabon; Dr. Ngo zi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO); Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA); and Mr. Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).
The dialogue focused on how African nations can leverage the AfCFTA to create sustainable regional value chains, enhance economic growth, and increase intra-African trade. The panelists shared insights on investment opportunities, trade policies, and the role of financial institutions in facilitating cross-border commerce.
The Africa Business Forum serves as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration among policymakers, business leaders, and development institutions. By addressing key economic challenges and opportunities, the forum aims to accelerate industrialization and economic transformation across the continent.
With the AfCFTA agreement in effect, discussions such as these are pivotal in driving Africa’s economic agenda forward, promoting trade liberalization, and supporting inclusive development. The outcomes of this dialogue are expected to contribute to shaping future policies that will strengthen Africa’s position in the global economy.
