MTN Ghana Board Chairman, Dr Ishmael Yamson, has described the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as one of the most important steps towards unlocking Africa's economic potential, saying the agreement has the power to reshape the continent's future if fully executed.

Speaking on The Y'ello Chair – Episode 8, MTN's vodcast platform that brings together African leaders and changemakers to discuss issues shaping Africa's future, Dr Yamson said the continent must move beyond signing agreements to ensuring they are effectively implemented.

"I think there is a realisation growing in Africa that we cannot continue to do the same things and expect different outcomes. Certain things must fundamentally change," he said.

He described AfCFTA as a major milestone but stressed that its success would depend on the commitment of member states to fully implement the agreement.

"I think AfCFTA is a major step that Africa is taking. What we need to do is to make sure that countries are helped to share the burden and execute it fully. Because if we actually execute AfCFTA in full, Africa will be a different continent," he stated.

According to Dr Yamson, successful implementation of the agreement would go beyond facilitating trade by encouraging the free movement of capital, resources and people across the continent.

"There will not only be the movement of capital and resources but also the movement of people. We should agree on an immigration policy similar to what the European Union has successfully implemented, making it easier for people to move, work legally and respect the laws of the countries in which they live," he said.

Dr Yamson noted that Africa's shared future should take precedence over historical divisions, urging countries to strengthen regional and continental cooperation.

"We have Anglophone and Francophone countries, particularly in West Africa, but over the years we have come to understand that whether Anglophone or Francophone, we have one destiny as Africa," he said.

He argued that economic integration would help African countries focus on their common interests while creating larger markets capable of supporting sustainable growth and attracting investment.

Looking ahead, Dr Yamson said he envisions an Africa where people can move freely across borders, governments are managed professionally, and corruption is tackled decisively to create greater opportunities for future generations.

"Africa can become a continent where Africans move freely, work legally and our countries are managed professionally. We cannot afford to fear the changes that are coming," he said.

He also highlighted Africa's youthful population as one of its greatest assets, noting that with nearly 70 per cent of the continent's population under the age of 30, the region has a unique opportunity to transform its demographic advantage into sustained economic growth.

Dr Yamson concluded that achieving this vision would require governments and the private sector to work together with a shared purpose.

"If we work together as one team chasing one goal, Africa will be a different continent. I hope we can make it," he said.