Fatshimetrie, June 24, 2024 – The Democratic Republic of Congo was proudly represented at the 3rd ministerial retreat of the council of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ZLECAF) by its eminent Minister of Foreign Trade. Indeed, Julien Paluku Kahongya took part in this important meeting which was held in Zanzibar, in the United Republic of Tanzania.
Under the auspices of the ZLECAF, this ministerial retreat highlighted crucial issues for Africa, such as the promotion of intra-African trade, the strengthening of continental integration, the competitiveness of African products on world markets and the development of value chains to promote industrialization on the continent.
At the center of the discussions, the need to put in place concrete strategies aimed at strengthening intra-African trade over the next 10 years. An ambitious objective which also aims to lay the foundations for the future creation of a single market for goods and services as well as an African customs union.
One of the main issues addressed was the increase in intra-African trade, currently estimated at only 6%. Foreign trade ministers therefore worked on solutions aimed at stimulating this trade, while harmonizing the rules of origin of products within the ZLECAF.
Furthermore, the importance of promoting the development of value chains and Special Economic Zones at the level of the Free Trade Zone was also underlined. These initiatives are part of a global approach aimed at promoting the emergence of a dynamic and competitive African economy on the international scene.
The resolutions resulting from this meeting will now constitute the Strategic Plan for the next 10 years of the ZLECAF. They will be submitted for validation by African Heads of State at an upcoming summit, marking a crucial step in the implementation of these ambitious strategies.
As rapporteur of this 14th meeting of foreign trade ministers, Julien Paluku Kahongya played a key role in coordinating the work and formulating recommendations. His commitment and expertise have helped advance the cause of economic integration in Africa, paving the way for new growth and development opportunities for the continent.
This active participation of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the ZLECAF ministerial retreat underlines the country’s commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties with its African partners. By working together for a prosperous and united Africa, the continent’s countries are paving the way for a promising future full of possibilities for all of their citizens.