Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 1 November 2024 – The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) successfully concluded the 8th Meeting of the Committee on Digital Trade, marking a significant milestone in advancing Africa’s digital trade framework. Held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 28 October to 1 November 2024, the meeting focused on finalising eight Draft Annexes to the Protocol on Digital Trade, essential for shaping a unified digital economy across the continent.
This five-day Meeting covered key areas, including Digital Identities, Online Safety, Cross-Border Data Transfers, and Financial Technology, with the Draft Annexes establishing the foundation for a robust digital economy across Africa. Representing H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Dr. Tsotetsi Makong emphasised the importance of these Annexes in positioning Africa as a leader in digital trade regulations. As Africa’s digital trade market is projected for substantial growth, the Annexes will support the continent’s efforts to enhance digital trade inclusion and competitiveness globally.
The chairperson Mr. Khamis A. Shauri, Director of Trade and Marketing at the Ministry of Trade and Industrial Development in Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania, encouraged delegates to engage in open and constructive discussions, fostering shared solutions to drive Africa’s development through digital trade. He stressed the importance of these Annexes in accelerating the implementation of the Protocol on Digital Trade, a vital step toward achieving “The Africa We Want” as envisaged in the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063.
Delegations reviewed and adopted all eight Draft Annexes, and recommeded them for consideration and approval by the Council of Ministers. The Meeting also requested the Secretariat to provide technical support and capacity- building to State and non- State Parties in implementing the Protocol on Ditigal Trade, and its Annexes.
The AfCFTA Secretariat extends its gratitude to the Government of Ethiopia for hosting the Meeting and providing invaluable support. The successful conclusion of this Meeting reaffirms Africa’s commitment to fostering an integrated digital economy, steering the continent towards shared growth and innovation.
