Assahafa.com
The minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, stressed on Friday in Marrakech the need for African countries to invest more in skills, expertise, and technical capabilities to ensure the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“While borders are closing everywhere, Africa is now the only region still seeking to open its markets, a unique position that requires the continent’s states to accelerate their efforts more than ever,” said Mezzour at the second edition of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Business Forum, held on December 11 and 12 in Marrakesh.
To this end, the minister indicated that despite logistical challenges and capacity gaps between countries, the first results are beginning to emerge after ten years of effort, highlighting the importance of accelerating the pace of work, strengthening support mechanisms, and mobilizing African expertise.
In an international context marked by uncertainty and increased fragmentation, Mezzour also highlighted the importance of developing structured, credible, and operational ideas, asserting that solid, well-developed, and ambitious concepts are essential to advancing the continent’s integration.
He also emphasized the key role of African youth, believing that they constitute a strategic lever capable of supporting the continent’s economic transformation.
Referring to post-pandemic challenges, the minister called for capitalizing on the lessons learned from the crisis by strengthening technical capacities and supporting innovation, considering the AfCFTA as a major opportunity to build more resilient and competitive economies.
“Africa has the resources, ideas, and skills needed. With investment and ambition, we will succeed,” he concluded.
Placed under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, the 2nd edition of the AfCFTA Business Forum is part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA, both nationally and regionally.
Source: map
