Source: Business Desk
The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat have launched a pioneering Infrastructure Compact, marking a significant milestone towards African economic integration.
This comprehensive framework emerged from the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, which brought together 5,000 participants, including African heads of state, industry leaders, and policymakers.
Five Transformative Pillars for Immediate Implementation
The Infrastructure Compact outlines five key areas of focus:
Transport and Logistics Integration:
Prioritizing the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and addressing the 30-40% cost premium impacting intra-African trade.
Energy Security and Power Integration:
Developing interconnected power grids and harmonized regional energy policies, with a focus on strategic projects like the Grand Inga Dam.
Digital Transformation: Establishing a five-year roadmap for achieving pan-African mobile system interoperability and prioritizing investments in broadband infrastructure and e-commerce platforms.
Healthcare and Social Infrastructure: Strengthening healthcare systems through increased domestic pharmaceutical production capacity and digital health solutions.
Strategic Infrastructure Financing: Introducing an innovative Infrastructure Fund targeting £2 trillion in mobilization from domestic capital markets.
Leaders Commit to Action
President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “We must act with urgency, determination, and a shared vision for prosperity.”
The summit culminated in the ceremonial lighting of the Africa Trade Torch (ATT), symbolizing the commitment to mainstream AfCFTA benefits across African communities.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com