Addis Ababa, March 16, 2025 (ABN)

African policymakers must prioritize intra-African trade and economic integration, said Semereta Sewasew, the State Minister of Finance for Ethiopia, at the opening of the Expert’s Segment of COM2025 in Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia is playing a pivotal role in the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with significant investments in logistics infrastructure and energy. Minister Sewasew highlighted Ethiopia’s strategic development of road and rail networks aimed at enhancing connectivity with neighboring countries. She pointed to the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, which has become a vital trade route, strengthening economic ties within the Horn of Africa.

Additionally, Ethiopia’s vast hydropower resources have positioned the country as a key player in regional energy trade, further solidifying its role in advancing the continent’s economic integration.

“By facilitating trade within Africa and reducing barriers, Ethiopia is paving the way for a more interconnected and self-sufficient continent,” she stated. “We stand ready to work alongside our African brothers and sisters to build a future of shared prosperity, driven by trade, connectivity, and economic collaboration.”

Minister Sewasew emphasized the critical need for decisiveness and strong political will to ensure the success of AfCFTA. “Implementation is where the true work lies, and it requires collective effort, collaboration, and commitment.”