The inaugural AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum 2025 officially opened this week in Lusaka, Zambia, with a powerful call to action from African leaders, policymakers, and innovators to accelerate the continent’s journey toward a unified digital economy.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Honorable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized the collective ambition driving the forum. “Over the next few days, African creators, innovators, and policymakers are coming together—not just as participants, but as co-architects of the continent’s digital and economic future,” she said. “Nigeria is not just participating—we are committed to leading.”

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, in his keynote address, highlighted the urgency of breaking down policy and institutional barriers to realize a truly integrated digital single market for Africa. His counterpart, President Duma Boko of Botswana, also joined the forum, reinforcing cross-border support for Africa’s digital transformation.

AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene reaffirmed that digital trade is essential—not optional—for the success of the AfCFTA. “Digital infrastructure, regulatory harmonization, and investment in skills and innovation must be prioritized,” he said.

The forum also spotlighted ten standout African innovators from the AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge, each offering cutting-edge solutions for intra-African digital trade—from payment systems to logistics, e-commerce, and digital identity.

With over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of US$3.4 trillion, the AfCFTA represents the world’s largest free trade area. The Forum aligns with the AU’s Agenda 2063 goals of transforming Africa into a global economic powerhouse through inclusive growth and regional value chains.

As implementation takes center stage, the Lusaka gathering has become a pivotal moment in defining “The Africa We Want“—a digitally connected, economically integrated continent that competes and thrives on the global stage.

The message from Lusaka is clear: the future of African trade is digital, and the time to act is now.