At the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2023, the AfCFTA Pavilion is set to be a hub of transformative conversations, as leaders, experts, and visionaries converge to discuss the pressing issues and opportunities shaping the future of African markets. With an ambitious schedule featuring insightful panels, keynote addresses, and breakout sessions, the sessions at the AfCFTA Pavilion promise to unravel significant insights and unveil groundbreaking initiatives.
The pressing need for these discussions is underscored by the pivotal role the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) plays in fostering economic integration across the continent. The sessions aim to address critical aspects that are central to the success of the AfCFTA and, by extension, the economic prosperity of the African nations involved.
Program Overview
9:00 AM – Opening with Welcome Remarks by Mr. Judson Wendell Addy and Mr. Ali Adji Mahamat SEID.
10:00 AM – Keynote Address by Prof. Kingsley Moghalu on Connecting African Markets
10:25 AM – Panel 1: Intra-Africa Trading – Currency Dynamics and Banking Systems, moderated by Dr. Lucy Surhyel Newman. Featuring Mr. Mike Ogbalu, Hon. Dr. Engr. El Gabaly, and Professor Kingsley Moghalu.
11:20 AM – Panel 2: Cross Border Trade & Logistics – Multiple Long-term Visas for Business and People Movement. Insights from Mr. John Bosco Kalisa, Mr. Louis Yaw Afful, and Hon. Mrs. Rose Mbayo.
11:50 AM – Panel 3: Regulatory Environment – The contradictions; how much longer can harmonization wait? Moderated by Prof. Sampson Ndoga. Join Dr. Amany Asfour, Mr. Ben Acheampong, and Prof. Justy Range.
2:30 PM – Panel 4: AETF – Aligning Africa’s Wealth Development with Academia / TVET Skillset for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. H.E Dr. Ekow Spio-Garbrah, Mr. Judson Wendell Addy, and Prof. Amany El-Sherif share their expertise.
2:00 PM – Breakout sessions on the Importance of Optimized Quality Infrastructure in the Implementation of the AfCFTA. Engage with industry leaders from AfCFTA Secretariat and PACCI Booth.
4:00 PM – Panel discussion on the Case of an African Commodity Exchange Association. Hear from Mrs. Roselyn Siaw, Mr. Kristian Moller, Mrs. Tucci Ivowi, Mr. Akin Ale-Ole, Mr. Ayodeji Balogun, and Mr. Abah Ofon
Opening the Dialogue:
The day kicks off with a warm welcome from Mr. Judson Wendell Addy and Mr. Ali Adji Mahamat SEID, setting the stage for a series of engaging discussions. The video introduction to the Charter PBSoR adds a visual dimension to the narrative, highlighting the commitment to transparency and shared values in the AfCFTA framework.
Connecting African Markets:
Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, the Incoming APSS Chair, takes the stage with a keynote address on “Connecting African Markets.” His insights will lay the foundation for subsequent discussions, emphasizing the importance of seamless trade and collaboration across borders.
Navigating Challenges:
Panels throughout the day will delve into the intricacies of Intra-Africa Trading, Currency Dynamics, Banking Systems, Cross-Border Trade & Logistics, and the Regulatory Environment. These discussions, led by industry experts and thought leaders, will explore challenges, propose solutions, and foster a deeper understanding of the hurdles hindering the realization of the AfCFTA’s full potential.
Aligning for Success:
A spotlight will be cast on the alignment of Africa’s wealth development with academia and TVET skillset development for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIRIA). The sessions, moderated by Prof. Sampson Ndoga, will feature H.E Dr. Ekow Spio-Garbrah, Mr. Judson Wendell Addy, and Prof. Amany El-Sherif, shedding light on the crucial link between education, skill development, and economic growth.
Breakout Sessions:
Practical discussions on the importance of Optimized Quality Infrastructure will take place in the afternoon, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders at the AfCFTA Secretariat Pavilion and PACCI Booth.
A Deep Dive into Commodity Exchanges:
The day concludes with a panel discussion focusing on the Case of an African Commodity Exchange Association. Industry experts will discuss the intricacies of commodity exchange, emphasizing the role it plays in driving economic growth and fostering collaboration across the continent.
As we navigate through these sessions at the AfCFTA Pavilion, we recognize the significance of these discussions in shaping the narrative of tomorrow. The conversations held here will not only provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges but will also pave the way for collaborative solutions, ultimately contributing to the realization of the AfCFTA’s vision for a more integrated and prosperous Africa. Stay tuned for updates and insights that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the trajectory of African trade and economic development.
