LOME, TOGO — Africa’s economic integration is no longer optional in a world marked by geopolitical tensions, protectionism, and economic uncertainty, Togo’s Finance and Strategic Monitoring minister, Badanam Patoki, has said.
Speaking at the close of the Biashara Afrika 2026, Patoki said progress under the African Continental Free Trade Area demonstrated that Africa is capable of building an integrated, competitive, and resilient economic space.
“In a world increasingly marked by geopolitical tensions, protectionism, and economic uncertainty, African economic integration is no longer optional. It is a strategic necessity for our economic security and our collective prosperity,” Patoki said.
He said Africa could not afford to remain fragmented despite representing one of the world’s largest potential markets and possessing its most important asset — a youthful population.
“Our youth remain our greatest capital,” he said.
Patoki said discussions at Biashara Afrika 2026 focused on regional value chains, industrialisation, local resource beneficiation, trade facilitation, digital trade, financing for SMEs and MSMEs, the economic empowerment of women and young people, and strengthening energy and digital infrastructure.
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He said the forum's success would be measured by Africa’s ability to translate dialogue into action.
“It is now time to accelerate implementation of the AfCFTA protocols while removing the non-tariff barriers that continue to hinder African trade,” Patoki said.
He added that this reflected growing momentum toward a more integrated continental market.
Wamkele Mene, secretary-general of the AfCFTA Secretariat, praised Togo after it announced a visa-free regime for all Africans during the forum.
Mene described the move as “leadership that confronts challenges directly and solves problems immediately instead of creating endless committees and delays.”
Delegates at the event had earlier raised concerns over alleged ill-treatment at Togo’s immigration facilities. The government responded the following day by announcing visa-free entry for African travellers.
Mene said the responsibility to overcome decades of fragmentation now rested with current African leaders and institutions.
“Previous generations laid the foundation. It is now our responsibility to advance Africa’s economic integration and improve the living conditions of our people,” he said.
He cited challenges to intra-African trade as trade finance gap, infrastructure deficits, and high transport and logistics costs.
Biashara Afrika is the flagship business and investment forum of the AfCFTA Secretariat, aimed at connecting policymakers, business leaders, and investors to accelerate intra-African trade.
This year’s edition was held in Lome from May 18 to 20 under the theme: Powering Africa’s Economic Transformation through the AfCFTA.