The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) will unlock significant business opportunities to help lift Africans out of poverty in the post-COVID-19 era, according to John Rocha, Chief Director of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) Trade and Invest Africa.
Speaking at a virtual outward trade and investment seminar held on November 25–26, Rocha emphasized that strengthening trade and investment ties between South Africa and Ethiopia is a vital step toward mutual economic growth. He noted that South Africa’s strategic partnership with Ethiopia is built on three key pillars—industrialisation, infrastructure development, and enhanced bilateral and intra-African trade.
Building a Stronger Intra-African Trade Network
Rocha described AfCFTA as a critical foundation for expanding intra-African trade, stating that it provides a powerful framework for boosting economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting inclusive development across the continent.
He also highlighted South Africa’s economic resilience and rich biodiversity, noting its strong potential for industrial advancement. Among the priority sectors identified for development are textiles and apparel, the integrated sugar industry, agroprocessing, and pharmaceuticals—all of which are expected to benefit from improved regional collaboration and market access under AfCFTA.
The seminar underscored the shared commitment of African nations to leverage AfCFTA as a tool for sustainable recovery and long-term prosperity.
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