Accra, Ghana, 20 February 2026 – H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), received a delegation from the International Trade Centre, led by Mme. Dorothy Tembo, Deputy Executive Director.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the two institutions, with particular emphasis on private sector engagement and capacity building for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), particularly women- and youth-led enterprises, as well as smallholder farmers.

Discussions underscored the importance of strategic partnerships in supporting the transition of the AfCFTA from negotiations to full implementation, and in ensuring that the benefits of continental integration are inclusive, practical, and transformative.

The engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to empowering African businesses with the skills, market access, and institutional support required to unlock the continent’s full trade potential.