The African Union Commission has called for accelerated efforts to advance economic integration across the continent, spotlighting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) as pivotal frameworks for Africa’s industrial and economic transformation.
The call came during a high-level Business Networking Event titled “Andinet – Remmogo” (meaning “unity” in Amharic and Setswana), hosted by the Embassy of Botswana in Addis Ababa in collaboration with Ethiopian consultancy Entrust Consult. The event brought together stakeholders to explore trade and investment opportunities between Botswana and Ethiopia, focusing on sectors like agriculture, leather, textiles, jewelry, coffee, aviation, and tourism.
Botho Bayendi, AU Director of Strategic Planning and Delivery, emphasized the urgency of implementing Agenda 2063, the continent’s blueprint for sustainable development. He highlighted AfCFTA’s potential to double intra-African trade and lift 30 million people out of poverty by 2035, alongside SAATM’s capacity to boost air traffic by 50% and cut airfares by 25%. “The synergy between AfCFTA and SAATM is undeniable,” Bayendi said. “AfCFTA opens markets; SAATM connects them, fostering economic mobility and integrated value chains.”
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Ethiopia, a key player in both initiatives, is poised to lead as a continental aviation and logistics hub, largely due to Ethiopian Airlines’ status as Africa’s largest carrier. Full implementation of SAATM in Ethiopia could enhance regional connectivity, lower transport costs, and increase cargo and passenger volumes, further solidifying its role in Africa’s economic landscape.
Botswana’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and AU Permanent Representative, Tebelelo Boang, underscored the need for diplomacy to prioritize economic opportunities. He highlighted Botswana’s stability, low corruption, and economic diversification as complementary to Ethiopia’s rapid industrial growth. “We must leverage AfCFTA to reduce market barriers and foster joint ventures in manufacturing, agribusiness, and technology,” Boang said. “This event marks the start of lasting conversations between our nations and businesses.”
The forum also emphasized SME cooperation and the alignment of national development plans with Agenda 2063 to promote local value addition and regional value chains. As Africa pushes for shared prosperity and global relevance, events like “Andinet – Remmogo” signal a growing commitment to turning continental frameworks into tangible economic gains.
