Dead Sea, Jordan, 19 February – At the 4th General Assembly of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, emphasised the transformative impact of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade and key initiatives like the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) in accelerating Africa’s digital economy.

By reducing cross-border barriers and strengthening digital ecosystems, these frameworks are unlocking new opportunities for African businesses and enhancing Africa’s integration into the global digital economy. As digital trade continues to reshape global commerce, the AfCFTA is positioned to drive inclusive growth by leveraging technology to boost competitiveness and connectivity across the continent.

Ahead of the General Assembly, H.E. Wamkele Mene met with H.E. Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary-General of the DCO, to discuss collaborative efforts in advancing Africa’s digital economy. During their discussions, H.E. Mene highlighted the recent adoption of the Annexes to the Protocol on Digital Trade by the African Union Assembly, underscoring their role in enabling seamless transactions, investment, and innovation across the continent. H.E. Al Yahya commended AfCFTA’s leadership and stressed the importance of digital skills development, infrastructure, and strategic collaboration to position Africa as a global digital hub.

The engagement at the DCO General Assembly reinforces the AfCFTA’s commitment to fostering digital inclusion and building a resilient digital economy that empowers businesses, particularly SMEs, while driving sustainable development across the continent.