Lomé, Togo, became the focal point for continental commerce and investment as it hosted the third annual Biashara Africa forum, commencing on May 18, 2026. This significant gathering brings together key players in African trade, investment, and economic partnerships, highlighting the continent’s dynamic current affairs.

During the opening ceremony, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé delivered a compelling address. His remarks centered on the critical opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the urgent need for African nations to translate ambitious political blueprints into tangible economic achievements.

Addressing an esteemed audience of African heads of state, government ministers, global investors, and private sector leaders, the Togolese President underscored a pivotal shift in focus, asserting that “the era of vision must now give way to an era of concrete results.”

Honoring Issoufou Mahamadou and Driving AfCFTA Implementation

In his impactful speech, Faure Gnassingbé extended commendation to Issoufou Mahamadou, a recognized champion of the AfCFTA, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to advancing African economic integration.

The President emphasized that mere agreements and policy documents are no longer sufficient. He called for African integration to manifest through robust infrastructure, efficient logistical corridors, sophisticated payment systems, and streamlined trade facilitation for businesses across the continent, particularly in West Africa.

He particularly criticized the ongoing challenges posed by non-tariff barriers, protracted border procedures, and prohibitively high logistical expenses, which collectively impede the progress of intra-African trade.

“Biashara Africa Must Be a Platform for Solutions”

President Gnassingbé articulated his vision that the Biashara Africa forum should transcend its role as a mere discussion forum. He asserted that its purpose is far more profound.

“This event must serve as a platform for generating solutions, fostering strategic partnerships, and actively operationalizing African economic integration,” he declared, emphasizing the urgency for actionable outcomes.

The Togolese leader further highlighted the strategic importance of the AfCFTA, especially within a global landscape characterized by escalating geopolitical tensions, rising protectionist sentiments, and the ongoing reconfiguration of international supply chains. These global shifts make the need for a unified African market even more critical for the continent’s stability and growth.

Forging a More Economically Sovereign Africa

According to Faure Gnassingbé, no single African economy can effectively safeguard its interests alone in an increasingly fragmented global environment. This perspective underpins the collective approach to continental development.

He therefore views the AfCFTA as far more than a simple trade agreement; it represents a fundamental instrument for achieving continental economic sovereignty. This overarching objective for West Africa and beyond aims to empower Africa to boost local production, fortify its industrial capabilities, and enhance its collective bargaining power within the global economy.

The ultimate goal, he explained, is to enable Africa to produce more domestically, reinforce its industrial base, and elevate its negotiating position on the global stage.

Advocating for Major African Conglomerates

The President also emphasized the imperative for the continent to cultivate robust regional value chains and foster the emergence of a more formidable African private sector. This is a key aspect of African economic integration and development.

Despite Africa’s vast natural and human resources, Faure Gnassingbé expressed regret that the continent continues to predominantly export raw materials while importing high-value-added processed goods. This imbalance highlights a critical area for transformation.

For him, the AfCFTA must serve as a catalyst to transcend the limitations of fragmented national markets, paving the way for the establishment of competitive African industries capable of thriving on a global scale.

He specifically championed the growth of African-owned enterprises, funded by African capital, that possess the capacity to operate effectively across the entire continent.

Youth and SMEs at the Core of African Integration

In the concluding segment of his address, Faure Gnassingbé placed significant emphasis on the pivotal roles of youth, women entrepreneurs, and African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Their inclusion is vital for sustainable growth.

He posited that sustainable African integration can only be achieved if it delivers tangible benefits to African populations, primarily through employment creation, fostering entrepreneurship, and ensuring access to regional markets. This inclusive approach is crucial for the future of West Africa and the entire continent.

“African integration cannot succeed if it is perceived solely as a project reserved for large corporations or institutions,” he affirmed, stressing the need for broad-based participation.

Togo Reaffirms Its Continental Commitment

In his closing remarks, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé reiterated Togo’s steadfast commitment to African economic integration.

Leveraging its strategic geographical location, advanced logistical infrastructure, and inherent role in regional connectivity, Togo is poised to play an active and instrumental role in shaping the future African market. This commitment is a testament to Togo’s vision for continental prosperity.

The Togolese leader concluded by expressing his earnest hope that this edition of Biashara Africa would successfully facilitate the emergence of new partnerships and ignite a fresh economic dynamism across the African continent.