AU Conference Stresses Telecommunications as Key to AfCFTA Success
At a recent African Union conference, telecommunications emerged as a central pillar for advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Dr. Larry Mweetwa, Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation, represented the Ministry of Technology and Science’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, and, under the guidance of Hon. Felix C. Mutati, MP, outlined Zambia’s vision for economic integration powered by telecommunications advancements.
Joined by prominent figures such as Dr. Sebastian Kopulande, Permanent Secretary of Transport and Logistics, and Mr. Mwalusaka, Dr. Mweetwa emphasized that improving telecommunications is crucial for dismantling trade barriers within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
Dr. Mweetwa presented key challenges and proposed solutions to accelerate AfCFTA’s implementation, noting the high roaming charges, regulatory complexities, limited infrastructure, digital literacy gaps, cybersecurity issues, and high taxes that burden telecommunications across Africa.
He highlighted Zambia’s initiatives, such as reducing international gateway barriers and enhancing public-private partnerships (PPPs) to expand telecom infrastructure. One example is a recent MoU with Angola, which has bolstered Zambia’s fiber-optic network.
He also underscored the importance of mass digital literacy programs, improved cybersecurity frameworks, and streamlined regulations. Dr. Mweetwa’s message aligned with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision for a borderless Africa, where economic integration drives prosperity.
The panel discussion reinforced the commitment of African leaders to creating a seamless trading environment through telecoms reform, infrastructure investment, and collaborative policies. By tackling these barriers, the AU hopes to unlock new economic opportunities under the AfCFTA, enabling a more interconnected and prosperous Africa.
