President William Ruto has expressed optimism about the implementation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA), which brings together the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Speaking on the sidelines of the Africa Union summit in Accra, Ghana, President Ruto emphasized the transformative potential of the TFTA, which will create a market of 700 million people across the continent.
“The implementation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area will not only establish a vast market but also unlock Africa’s potential, expand opportunities, alleviate poverty, and foster shared prosperity,” he said.
The President noted that the TFTA aligns with proposed African Union reforms aimed at promoting economic integration and sustainable development. According to Ruto, the initiative will serve as a catalyst for boosting intra-African trade and positioning Africa as a formidable global economic player.
“We must leverage these reforms to expand our trade horizons and lift millions of Africans out of poverty. This is a critical step toward achieving the shared dream of a prosperous and self-reliant Africa,” Ruto added.
During the summit, President Ruto held bilateral talks with Botswana’s President Gideon Boko. The two leaders discussed strengthening trade ties and enhancing regional cooperation. President Boko also pledged his support for Hon. Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairperson position.
President Ruto praised the gesture, highlighting the importance of unity among African nations in driving forward key agendas for development and integration.
As African leaders rally behind the TFTA and related initiatives, the focus remains on harnessing the continent’s immense potential to address longstanding challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.
President Ruto’s call for collaboration and shared prosperity underscores Kenya’s commitment to playing a central role in shaping Africa’s economic future.
