Bangui, Central African Republic, 25 February 2026 – On the margins of his official visit to the Central African Republic, H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), paid a courtesy call on Honourable Thierry Patrick Akoloza, Minister of Trade and Industry, to deepen engagement on the country’s participation in the AfCFTA.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund and practical mechanisms to support the effective implementation of the Agreement. The Secretary-General and the Minister explored the development of a country-specific programme to identify priority sectors that could drive economic diversification, strengthen industrialisation, boost investment in critical trade-related infrastructure, and enhance private sector participation.

They also highlighted the importance of creating greater opportunities for youth-led enterprises to actively participate in intra-African trade.

The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to ensuring that AfCFTA implementation delivers tangible benefits for businesses, young entrepreneurs, and communities across the region.