President John Dramani Mahama has called on the African Union (AU) to take bold steps in eliminating trade barriers, harmonising regulations, and investing in infrastructure to fully unlock the potential of intra-African trade.

Speaking at the High-Level Retreat on AU Institutional Reforms at Kenya’s State House in Nairobi, President Mahama stressed that while the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has laid the foundation for a single African market, more work needs to be done to ensure its success.

“We must address the barriers to trade, we must harmonise regulatory frameworks, and we must invest in infrastructure to unlock the potential of intra-African trade,” President Mahama stated.

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He further called on the AU to champion technological innovation and digital transformation, citing these as key catalysts for economic growth and inclusion.

“As part of this transformation, we must expedite the African payment system, which will allow seamless transactions for goods traded across our countries. This will create a more efficient system of exchange and boost regional commerce.”

President Mahama emphasised that none of these reforms would succeed without committed leadership at every level of the AU.

He urged African heads of state and governments to prioritise the collective good over narrow national interests and act decisively in the best interests of the continent.

“The AU must also foster partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and the African diaspora, whose contributions are vital in shaping and implementing reforms,” he added.