Geopolitical Implications of AfCFTA: Africa's Role in Global Trade and Regional Integration
By Leshan L Naisho The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has emerged as a transformative force in Africa's political economy, redefining the continent's trade dynamics and geopolitical leverage. By consolidating 54 nations into a single market, AfCFTA represents the world's largest free trade area by number of participating countries, with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion and a population of 1.3 billion. As of 2025, its implementation has not only fostered intra-African trade but also positioned Africa as a unified bloc in global trade negotiations, enhancing its influence on the international stage. A Unified Voice in Global Trade Historically, Africa's fragmented trade policies have undermined its ability to negotiate effectively in global forums such as the World Trade Organization (WTO). AfCFTA changes this dynamic by enabling Africa to present a unified stance on critical issues like agricultural subsidies, intellectual property rights, and digital ...