African Free Trade Area Faces Protectionist Threats Amid Heightened Intra-Continental Tensions
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to create a single market for goods and services across Africa, starting on July 1. However, internal and external threats may complicate this initiative. South Africa's secretary-general appointment is a significant step for implementing AfCFTA's liberalization. Ghana's upcoming elections may lead to protectionist promises for farming support. Tensions within Africa may rise due to perceived breaches of AfCFTA, like Nigeria's border closure.