Ease visa restrictions to boost intra-Africa trade – AfCFTA

Cynthia E. Gnassingbé-Essonam is a Senior Advisor to Wamkele Mene. He is the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She spoke at a webinar hosted by LIMA Partners. The theme was “Unlocking Opportunities Across Africa: Harnessing AfCFTA for Business Growth.”

Gnassingbé-Essonam stressed the need for African governments to address visa restrictions. These restrictions hinder free movement across the continent. She noted that visa policies are not directly under AfCFTA’s mandate. However, lobbying for easier mobility is crucial for trade growth.

The AfCFTA is more than just a policy document. It serves as a practical platform with trade facilitation tools. These tools help businesses expand beyond borders. They include the Guided Trade Initiative and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS). The African Trade Observatory also aims to reduce trade costs and improve market access.

She pointed out that awareness among entrepreneurs is lacking. Many small businesses do not know how to use these tools effectively. “Visa restrictions among AfCFTA countries are outside our mandate,” she said. “But we must lobby heads of state and the AU.”

She added that increasing intra-Africa trade requires addressing movement issues. Currently, only four countries have ratified the protocol on movement of people. There seems to be strong political will for intra-Africa trade and AfCFTA progress.

“Our leaders need to focus on visa issues,” she stated. Some countries are leading by example, but clarity is needed at the African Union level.