The AfCFTA Secretariat in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Zambia, will host the Inaugural AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum (Forum) from 20 to 22 June 2024 in Lusaka, Zambia. The Theme of the Forum is “Boosting Digital Trade to Accelerate AfCFTA Implementation.”

The Forum will unpack the opportunities under the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, identify sustainable solutions for boosting digital trade in Africa, and provide a networking opportunity among governments, businesses and other digital trade ecosystem stakeholders.

Africa’s digital economy is projected to contribute over US$180 billion (5.2%) to the gross-domestic product of the continent by 2025, and US$712 (8.5%) by 2050 facilitated by the movement of capital and persons to deepen the economic integration of the continent. This growth is attributed to mainly the increasing investment in information and communications technology (ICTs) which has fast-tracked mobile phone penetration and usage.

The Protocol on Digital Trade ensures that African Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) constituting over 90% of the African market, of which about 70% are owned by women and youth benefit from the AfCFTA. The Protocol also opens new opportunities to boost sustainable investment, technology transfer, and integrate Africa into the global digital market.

Join us in Zambia as we provide a platform for governments, private sector, civil society, organisations and relevant stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, insights and best practices on boosting digital trade with a view to accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA, and putting Africa at the forefront of global digital trade and transformation.