Lomé is currently hosting the third edition of Biashara Africa, an influential continental forum dedicated to advancing trade, investment, and strategic economic partnerships across Africa. The event, which commenced on May 18, 2026, gathers key stakeholders from across the continent.
During the opening ceremony, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé delivered a pivotal address. His speech underscored the critical importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and emphasized the urgent need for Africa to transition from political aspirations to tangible economic outcomes.
Addressing a distinguished audience of African leaders, ministers, investors, and private sector representatives, the Togolese head of state asserted that “the era of vision must now decisively give way to the era of results.”
honoring issoufou mahamadou and pushing for afcfta operationalization
In his remarks, Faure Gnassingbé extended a heartfelt tribute to Issoufou Mahamadou, a recognized champion of the AfCFTA, commending his unwavering dedication to fostering African economic integration.
The President of the Council underscored that mere agreements and legislative frameworks are no longer sufficient. He stressed that genuine African integration must manifest through concrete actions, including the development of efficient infrastructure, high-performing logistical corridors, modern payment systems, and streamlined exchanges among African enterprises.
He particularly highlighted the persistent challenges posed by non-tariff barriers, cumbersome border procedures, and exorbitant logistical costs, which continue to impede the growth of intra-African trade.
“biashara africa must be a platform for solutions”
President Gnassingbé articulated his vision for the Biashara Africa forum, stating that it must transcend being a mere venue for discussions.
He declared, “This event needs to be a robust platform for generating solutions, forging partnerships, and operationalizing African integration.”
The Togolese leader further emphasized the strategic significance of the AfCFTA, especially within a global landscape characterized by escalating geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism, and the ongoing reconfiguration of international supply chains.
towards an economically sovereign africa
Faure Gnassingbé asserted that in an increasingly fragmented world, no single African economy can effectively defend its interests in isolation.
He views the AfCFTA as far more than a mere commercial agreement; it is, in his estimation, a vital instrument for achieving continental economic sovereignty.
The ultimate goal, he explained, is to empower Africa to significantly increase local production, bolster its industrial capabilities, and enhance its collective bargaining power within the global economy.
advocating for robust african enterprises
The President of the Council further emphasized the imperative for the continent to cultivate genuine regional value chains and foster the emergence of a more formidable African private sector.
Despite Africa’s vast natural and human resources, Faure Gnassingbé expressed regret that the continent predominantly exports raw materials while importing high-value-added processed goods, a trend he believes must change.
He believes the AfCFTA is key to transcending the limitations of fragmented national markets, thereby enabling the construction of competitive African industries.
In this regard, he specifically called for the rise of African-owned enterprises, capitalized by African investors, capable of operating effectively on a continent-wide scale.
youth and smes: central to african integration
In the concluding segment of his address, Faure Gnassingbé placed a strong emphasis on the pivotal roles of youth, women entrepreneurs, and African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
He maintained that African integration can only achieve lasting success if it delivers concrete benefits to African populations, particularly through expanded employment opportunities, robust entrepreneurship, and improved access to regional markets.
“African integration cannot truly succeed if it is perceived solely as a project for large corporations or institutions,” he affirmed.
Togo reaffirms continental commitment
In his closing remarks, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé reiterated Togo’s steadfast commitment to the cause of African integration.
Leveraging its strategic geographical location, advanced logistical infrastructure, and established role in regional connectivity, Togo aims to be an active participant in shaping the future African market.
Finally, the Togolese leader expressed his profound hope that this edition of Biashara Africa will serve as a catalyst for new partnerships and ignite a fresh economic dynamism across the African continent.
