"AfCFTA is one of the structural changes shaping africa’s economic future" – NDC National Chairman

National Chairman of Ghana’s ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has urged African political parties to champion the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a critical pillar in shaping the continent’s economic destiny.

Addressing participants at the closing session of the three-day African Political Parties Summit in Accra on Thursday, Asiedu Nketiah said the AfCFTA is among the most ambitious and transformative initiatives in Africa’s recent history, with the potential to accelerate integration and development.

“A successful AfCFTA will redefine Africa’s position in the global economy,” he said.

"However, it will not implement itself. We need strong political will at the highest level and coordinated policy frameworks within our countries to make it work.”

He stressed that the initiative’s success will depend on the courage of leaders to make decisions that prioritize long-term economic competitiveness over short-term political gains.

Launched on January 1, 2021, and headquartered in Accra, the AfCFTA aims to create a single continental market, boost intra-African trade, spur socioeconomic growth, reduce poverty, and strengthen Africa’s global competitiveness.

Asiedu Nketiah called on the continent’s political leadership to see the AfCFTA not only as an economic instrument but also as a strategic pathway to Africa’s lasting prosperity and unity.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith