Somalia Strengthens Commitment to AfCFTA: Minister of Commerce Meets AfCFTA Secretary General in Djibouti
High-Level Meeting During the Regional Economic Forum
The Federal Minister of Commerce and Industry of Somalia, Hon. Mohamoud Adan Geesood, held a formal meeting with the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), H.E. Wamkele Mene. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Regional Special Economic Zone Forum, hosted by the Government of Djibouti. This high-level engagement reflects Somalia’s proactive role in deepening its economic diplomacy across the continent.
Purpose of the Meeting
The main agenda of the discussion centered on Somalia’s accession to the AfCFTA and the need to accelerate the ratification process. Both parties exchanged views on how Somalia can align with the strategic frameworks required to fully participate in Africa’s largest trade and investment platform.
Federal Government’s Determination
Minister Geesood reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to finalizing the ratification process of the AfCFTA agreement. He emphasized that Somalia views this step as critical to unlocking broader economic growth, facilitating cross-border trade, and integrating into continental value chains.
Economic Opportunities Through AfCFTA
The Minister highlighted the vast economic potential that AfCFTA offers, including access to a market of over 1.3 billion people. He underscored how the agreement could expand investment opportunities, reduce trade barriers, and boost job creation in Somalia. This aligns with the country’s long-term vision for economic resilience and inclusive development.
Somalia’s Strategic Role in Africa
Minister Geesood noted Somalia’s geostrategic location in the Horn of Africa and emphasized that joining AfCFTA will enhance the country’s connectivity to regional and continental markets. Somalia’s participation will further position it as a critical trade hub, facilitating the movement of goods, services, and capital throughout the region.
Official Diplomatic Invitation
During the meeting, the Minister extended a formal invitation to Secretary General Wamkele Mene to visit Somalia. The visit is expected to strengthen technical cooperation and allow for in-person assessment and support of Somalia’s ratification efforts. The invitation is a milestone in strengthening Somalia’s engagement with continental institutions.
Agreement on Technical Collaboration
The two leaders agreed on the importance of establishing a joint technical mechanism that would support legal alignment, capacity building, and stakeholder awareness. The aim is to ensure Somalia meets all the requirements for full and effective participation in the AfCFTA framework.
Conclusion: A Shared Vision for Integration
The meeting concluded with a strong sense of mutual understanding and optimism. Both sides acknowledged the strategic importance of Somalia’s integration into AfCFTA and committed to continued collaboration in achieving economic integration and shared prosperity across Africa.
