The Secretariat
The whole existence of the AfCFTA is to create a single continental market for the free movement of goods, services and investments. The AfCFTA Agreement covers goods and services, intellectual property rights, investments, digital trade and Women and Youth in Tade among other areas. The Secretariat, therefore, works with State Parties to negotiate trade rules and frameworks for eliminating trade barriers while putting in place a Dispute Settlement Mechanism, thereby levelling the ground for increased intra-Africa trade.
Another function of the Secretariat is to ensure that trade policies of the various State Parties are in conformity with the provisions in the AfCFTA Agreement. Where there are identifiable gaps, the Secretariat then facilitates the process of bridging the gaps. It also undertakes periodic reviews of State Parties reports and monitors the overall implementation of the Agreement while providing appropriate interventions.
Though the State Parties have agreed on modalities for engaging in trade with each other, there will arise moments of tension that need mediation. The Secretariat has therefore put in place dispute resolution mechanisms for the swift and transparent resolution of possible contentions. The AfCFTA Dispute Settlement Mechanism comprises vital institutions such as the Dispute Settlement Body, the Adjudicating panels and the Appellate Body for second-tier review and other appropriate avenues for seeking redress.
