Kigali, Rwanda, 11 December 2025 – The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat convened the second meeting of the Ad hoc Committee on the AfCFTA Implementation Review Mechanism (AFIRM) in Kigali, Rwanda, advancing a continental system to monitor and support State Parties’ implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement.

Over four days, delegates from across the continent finalised essential implementation review instruments that will constitute the foundation of a systematic assessment process commencing in 2026, representing a significant milestone in Africa’s pursuit of deeper economic integration.

The Kigali meeting concentrated on finalising the Implementation Review Matrices (IRMs) for Digital Trade and Women and Youth in Trade, whilst reviewing updates to existing matrices on Trade in Goods and Trade in Services. These comprehensive instruments will form the cornerstone of AFIRM, which will assess each State Party at least once every five years beginning in 2026.