Manzini, Eswatini – September 1, 2024: The Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), His Excellency Wamkele Mene, attended the opening ceremony of the 56th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) in Manzini. This prestigious event, running from August 30 to September 8, 2024, is the largest trade fair in the Kingdom of Eswatini, providing a vital platform for local, regional, and global businesses to showcase their products and services.
His Majesty King Mswati III officially opened the event, which is expected to attract approximately 50,000 visitors and features around 300 exhibitors, including a significant presence of foreign companies. The EITF is a cornerstone event in Eswatini’s business calendar, reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering trade relations and economic development.
This year’s theme underscores the critical role that digitalisation and e-commerce play in driving sustainable economic growth and inclusivity in trade. The theme is particularly relevant as Africa continues to embrace the digital economy, which offers unprecedented opportunities for businesses of all sizes, especially in the context of the AfCFTA, with the Protocol on Digital Trade.
In his remarks at the opening session, Secretary-General Mene highlighted the transformative potential of digitalisation in enhancing intra-African trade. He noted that digital tools are crucial for breaking down barriers that have historically impeded trade across the continent. By enabling easier access to markets, information, and networks, digitalisation empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), informal traders, and young entrepreneurs to engage more actively in commercial activities.
“Digital trade and digitalisation are key drivers of inclusivity,” said H.E. Wamkele Mene. “They allow businesses of all sizes to compete on a more level playing field, ensuring that even the smallest enterprises can participate in the continental market. This is particularly important for SMEs, which make up the backbone of Africa’s economy, as well as for young entrepreneurs who represent the future of our continent.”
Moreover, the AfCFTA is committed to fostering a conducive environment for digital trade across Africa. By establishing frameworks that support digital trade, the AfCFTA aims to facilitate smoother cross-border transactions and create a unified digital market. The Secretary-General’s attendance at the EITF underscores the AfCFTA’s dedication to promoting policies that accelerate digital transformation in Africa’s trade landscape.
The AfCFTA also recognizes the importance of collaboration with Member States, the private sector, and other stakeholders in advancing the digital economy. Events like the EITF provide an opportunity to engage with key players in the business community and explore new avenues for partnership and growth.
The 56th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair is a testament to Eswatini’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a significant player in regional and global trade. With a focus on digitalisation and e-commerce, this year’s event aligns closely with the broader goals of the AfCFTA to create a more integrated and inclusive African market.
As the fair continues, it is expected to foster new business opportunities, strengthen trade relations, and contribute to the economic development of Eswatini and the continent at large. The AfCFTA remains committed to supporting initiatives that drive inclusive and sustainable growth across Africa.
