AfCFTA: Turning trade agreements into business opportunities.

I had the pleasure of participating in the regional workshop “Strengthening Private Sector Engagement for AfCFTA Implementation in the IGAD Region,” held in Nairobi on 2–3 November 2026 at Iconic Plaza Hotel.

Organised by the Government of Kenya, IGAD and UNECA, the workshop brought together businesses and institutions to discuss how we can translate AfCFTA commitments into practical commercial opportunities.

I was pleased to contribute through two business case presentations:

1. Assessing the market opportunity for soybean flour, including market intelligence, tariff access and Rules of Origin.

2. Comparing COMESA and AfCFTA market access for edible-oil exports from Djibouti to Africa countries, highlighting the importance of preferential tariffs and origin requirements.

These discussions reinforced an important lesson: signing trade agreements is only the beginning. Businesses need to navigate HS classification, Rules of Origin, certification, customs procedures, logistics and financing before preferential access becomes a real commercial advantage.

My key message throughout the discussions was simple:

We need to focus on developing competitive manufacturing, regional value chains, supplier networks and efficient trade corridors.

I was also honoured that Golden Africa Djibouti received the 2026 Recognition Award for AfCFTA Private Sector Engagement, presented by UNECA.

This recognition reflects our commitment to regional manufacturing, trade and economic integration, and belongs to the entire Golden Africa team.

My appreciation to the Government of Kenya, IGAD, UNECA and all participants for the valuable discussions and exchange of experiences.