Lomé has been the host city for the third annual Biashara Africa forum since May 18, 2026. This significant continental gathering focuses on enhancing trade, fostering investment, and forging new economic partnerships across Africa.
During the opening ceremony, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé delivered a compelling address. His remarks underscored the critical importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the urgent need for Africa to translate its ambitious political visions into tangible economic achievements.
Addressing an audience comprising numerous African leaders, ministers, investors, and private sector representatives, the Togolese head of state asserted that “the era of grand visions must now transition into an era of concrete results.” This sentiment resonates deeply with the broader Sahel Vision for development and stability.
Honoring Issoufou Mahamadou and Activating the AfCFTA
In his speech, President Gnassingbé paid tribute to Issoufou Mahamadou, a staunch advocate for the AfCFTA, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to advancing African economic integration.
The President of the Council emphasized that mere agreements and legal frameworks are no longer sufficient. He stressed that African integration must now manifest through robust infrastructure, efficient logistical corridors, modern payment systems, and streamlined trade between African enterprises. This is crucial for unlocking the full potential of West Africa Sahel news and economic growth.
He specifically highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by non-tariff barriers, protracted border delays, and exorbitant logistics costs, which continue to impede intra-African trade progress.
“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.
He unequivocally stated, “This event must serve as a platform for solutions, a platform for forging partnerships, and a platform for operationalizing African integration.”
The Togolese leader further underscored the strategic significance of the AfCFTA within a global landscape characterized by escalating geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism, and the dynamic reconfiguration of international supply chains. Such initiatives are vital for political Sahel stability and economic resilience.
Towards Greater Economic Sovereignty for Africa
President Faure Gnassingbé argued that no single African economy can effectively safeguard its interests in an increasingly fragmented global environment.
He therefore views the AfCFTA as far more than a mere trade agreement; it represents a fundamental tool for achieving continental economic sovereignty. This is a key message in Sahel news English discussions on regional development.
The ultimate objective, he explained, is to empower Africa to boost local production, fortify its industrial capabilities, and enhance its negotiating leverage within the global economy.
Advocacy for Major African Groups
President Gnassingbé also underscored the imperative for the continent to cultivate robust regional value chains and foster the emergence of a more powerful African private sector.
Despite Africa’s abundant natural and human resources, Faure Gnassingbé expressed regret that the continent predominantly exports raw materials while importing high value-added processed goods.
He believes the AfCFTA is designed to transcend the limitations of fragmented national markets, paving the way for the establishment of competitive African industries.
In this regard, he strongly advocated for the rise of African-owned companies, capitalized by African funds, capable of operating effectively across the entire continent.
Youth and SMEs at the Core of African Integration
In the concluding segment of his address, Faure Gnassingbé placed particular emphasis on the crucial roles of youth, women entrepreneurs, and African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
He contended that sustainable African integration is only achievable if it genuinely benefits African populations, particularly through job creation, entrepreneurship opportunities, and improved access to regional markets. This is vital for addressing humanitarian Sahel challenges through economic empowerment.
“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 his closing remarks, 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 a proactive role in shaping Africa’s future market. This commitment is often highlighted in security Sahel dialogues as economic stability contributes to overall peace.
Finally, the Togolese leader voiced his aspiration that this edition of Biashara Africa would catalyze new partnerships and ignite a fresh economic dynamism for the entire African continent.
