Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 29 August 2024: H.E. Wamkele Mene, the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), held a series of significant engagements with Ethiopian officials and stakeholders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 29 August 2024. Upon his arrival, H.E. Mene was received by Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie. The meeting underscored the Ethiopian government’s ongoing reforms in crucial sectors, including finance and banking, as part of its broader strategy to enhance economic stability and growth.

Later in the day, H.E. Mene participated in a Public-Private Dialogue organized by the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration. The event was attended by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Temesgen Truneh, along with other government officials and representatives from the private sector. In his speech, H.E. Mene congratulated the Ethiopian government for its pivotal role in the implementation of the AfCFTA, recognizing Ethiopia as one of the first countries to ratify the Agreement. He also praised Ethiopia’s proactive efforts in aligning its tariff offer with the agreed modalities, further solidifying its commitment to regional economic integration.

Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa, has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience. Despite facing global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic fallout from the Ukraine crisis, Ethiopia has maintained a robust growth trajectory. The country’s economy is projected to grow by 6.2% in 2024 and 6.5% in 2025, reflecting its steadfast commitment to development and integration within the African continent.

H.E. Mene’s visit highlighted the importance of Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms and its crucial role in the successful implementation of the AfCFTA, paving the way for deeper economic integration across Africa.