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The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) has launched a sweeping 12-point “People’s Compact” at the 2026 Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Accra, calling for urgent action to advance Africa’s integration agenda. Central to the Compact is visa-free travel across all African Union member states, seen as essential to unlocking the continent’s single market of 1.5 billion people.
The Compact, endorsed by 6,530 participants from 51 African countries and 40 others worldwide, also demands seamless cross-border trade and interoperable digital payment systems to empower SMEs, women, and youth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Delegates stressed that Africa does not need new declarations but must implement existing treaties such as the Abuja Treaty, the AfCFTA Agreement, and the Free Movement Protocol—ratified by only four states since 2018.
Speakers warned that fragmented markets undermine growth and job creation, noting Africa must generate 15–20 million jobs annually to meet youth demand. The Compact anchors the “Make Africa Borderless Now!” campaign, aiming for 10 million signatures to be presented to the AU Assembly in 2027.
APN Advisory Council Chair Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma emphasized that Africa already has the tools for prosperity, urging governments to move from promises to action. The Compact adds fresh pressure on leaders to deliver integration through open borders, digital trade, and enforceable rules—seen as vital for resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Source: joynews
