Lomé is currently hosting the third annual Biashara Africa forum, a significant continental gathering dedicated to fostering trade, investment, and robust economic partnerships across Africa. The event commenced on May 18, 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across the continent.
During the opening ceremony, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé delivered a pivotal address, underscoring the critical importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). His speech emphasized the urgent need for Africa to translate its political aspirations into tangible economic achievements.
Addressing an assembly of African leaders, ministers, investors, and private sector representatives, the Togolese head of state asserted that the era of vision must now transition into an era of concrete results.
honoring commitment and operationalizing the afcfta
In his remarks, President Gnassingbé paid tribute to Issoufou Mahamadou, a staunch advocate for the AfCFTA, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to advancing African economic integration.
The President highlighted that mere agreements and legal frameworks are no longer sufficient. He insisted that African integration must now manifest through efficient infrastructure, high-performing logistics corridors, modern payment systems, and streamlined exchanges among African businesses.
He specifically decried the persistent presence of non-tariff barriers, bureaucratic delays at borders, and the prohibitive logistics costs that continue to impede intra-African trade.
“biashara africa must be a platform for solutions”
For the Togolese head of government, the Biashara Africa forum should transcend being a mere discussion forum.
“This event must serve as a platform for generating solutions, forging partnerships, and operationalizing African integration,” he declared emphatically.
The Togolese leader further emphasized the strategic significance of the AfCFTA, particularly within a global landscape characterized by escalating geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism, and the ongoing reconfiguration of international supply chains.
a more economically sovereign africa
President Faure Gnassingbé articulated that no single African economy can effectively safeguard its interests alone in an increasingly fragmented world.
He therefore views the AfCFTA as far more than a mere trade agreement; it is a fundamental instrument for continental economic sovereignty. The ultimate goal, he explained, is to empower Africa to boost local production, fortify its industrial capabilities, and enhance its negotiating power within the global economy.
advocating for major african groups
The President also stressed the imperative for the continent to cultivate robust regional value chains and foster the emergence of a more formidable African private sector.
Despite Africa’s vast natural and human resources, Faure Gnassingbé expressed regret that the continent predominantly exports raw materials while importing processed goods with high added value.
He believes the AfCFTA must enable Africa to transcend the limitations of fragmented national markets to build competitive African industries.
He specifically called for the rise of African-owned enterprises capable of operating effectively on a continental scale.
youth and smes at the heart of african integration
In the concluding segment of his address, Faure Gnassingbé spotlighted the vital roles of youth, women entrepreneurs, and African SMEs.
He maintained that African integration can only achieve sustainability if it genuinely benefits African populations, particularly through job creation, entrepreneurship, and enhanced access to regional markets.
“African integration cannot succeed if it remains perceived as a project exclusively for large corporations or institutions,” he affirmed.
Togo reaffirms its continental commitment
In closing, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé reiterated Togo’s unwavering commitment to African integration.
Leveraging its strategic geographical location, advanced logistical infrastructure, and dedication to regional connectivity, Togo aims to play an active and central role in shaping the future African market.
The Togolese leader concluded by expressing his hope that this edition of Biashara Africa will catalyze the formation of new partnerships and inject fresh economic dynamism into the African continent.
