Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania – 22 December 2024: In a historic step for Africa’s economic integration, the eight annexes of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade were adopted today during the 10th Session of the African Union (AU) Specialised Technical Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs (STC-JLA). This achievement establishes Africa as the first continent to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital trade, reflecting its readiness to lead in the global digital economy.

H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, underscored the significance of this milestone during his address to the Ministers.

“The adoption of these annexes marks Africa’s readiness to tackle the challenges of the 4th Industrial Revolution. It provides the regulatory foundation needed to open markets, create opportunities for small and medium enterprises, foster innovation within African technology companies, support creative industries, and attract investment in digital public infrastructure,” he stated.

The annexes, developed through extensive deliberations and legal review, will now be submitted for consideration and adoption by Heads of State and Government during the upcoming AU Summit in February 2025. H.E. Mene emphasised the importance of a phased approach to the implementation of the Protocol, ensuring that measurable progress is achieved while preparing the continent for deeper levels of integration.

This milestone demonstrates Africa’s leadership in shaping a harmonised and inclusive digital economy, fostering opportunities for businesses and communities across the continent.