At the recent Commonwealth summit in Samoa, discussions around reparations for colonial injustices sparked renewed focus on Africa’s history of exploitation. Leaders from the continent joined others in signing a declaration that acknowledged the need for “reparatory justice” and meaningful dialogue on the issue.
While symbolic, this debate risks overshadowing transformative initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offers a sustainable path to economic growth and poverty reduction for the region.
This persistent focus risks diverting attention from practical solutions like fostering economic freedom and trade. Research by the Initiative for African Trade & Prosperity highlights the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to eliminate 90% of intra-African tariffs. If implemented fully, the AfCFTA could lift over 100 million people out of poverty by 2035 and significantly increase trade across the continent.
While free trade offers a sustainable path to prosperity, challenges like non-tariff barriers and political instability remain. Unlike reparations or foreign aid, the AfCFTA is an Africa-driven initiative poised to empower nations through economic collaboration, demonstrating the enduring power of free markets to combat poverty.
