AU Commission Chairperson Calls for Renewed Push to Accelerate Africa’s Integration Agenda

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (FMC) — AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called for renewed political commitment and collective action to accelerate Africa’s integration agenda, stressing the importance of stronger continental cooperation amid growing global economic uncertainty.

In a message marking Africa Integration Day, commemorated annually on July 7, Youssouf said deeper African integration is no longer only an aspiration but a strategic necessity, highlighting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a major pathway to transform Africa’s economic potential into shared prosperity.

He noted that the AfCFTA brings together 55 countries, more than 1.3 billion people and a combined gross domestic product of about US$3.4 trillion. However, he said Africa’s greatest economic opportunity lies within the continent, as intra-African trade still accounts for only around 16–18 percent of total trade.

Youssouf called on AU Member States to accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA and other continental integration instruments by reducing trade barriers, harmonizing regulations and investing in infrastructure that connects African economies.

He emphasized that transport networks, energy systems and digital connectivity are essential to unlocking regional value chains, industrialization and sustainable economic growth.

The AU Commission Chairperson also highlighted the importance of advancing the free movement of people across the continent, saying easier mobility for entrepreneurs, traders, professionals, students and workers would strengthen trade, investment, innovation and people-to-people integration.

He stressed that Africa’s integration agenda must deliver tangible opportunities for young people, women, entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses, while underscoring that peace, security, good governance and the role of Regional Economic Communities remain critical pillars of continental integration.

Africa Integration Day marks the launch of the operational phase of the AfCFTA in Niamey, Niger, in 2019 and reflects Africa’s long-standing vision of unity, shared prosperity and collective self-reliance under Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

Youssouf reaffirmed the AU Commission’s commitment to working with Member States and partners to advance Africa’s integration agenda and translate continental ambitions into practical benefits for African citizens.