The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission held the third meeting of the Regional Committee on the Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) from November 19 to 21, 2025, in Accra, Ghana.
The Regional AfCFTA Committee (RAC), created as part of the ECOWAS Regional AfCFTA Strategy adopted by the Council of Ministers in July 2023, is responsible for coordinating and advancing implementation efforts across West Africa. The committee’s mandate includes supporting Member States in fulfilling their obligations under the agreement and ensuring that countries in the region benefit from its opportunities.
Representatives from all 12 ECOWAS Member States attended, along with officials from the AfCFTA Secretariat and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). During three days of meetings, delegates assessed progress made under the regional strategy and reviewed tools aimed at improving monitoring and coordination. Reports presented by Member States showed advancements in national implementation systems, tariff liberalization steps, and outreach to stakeholders.
Participants also identified areas needing further work such as mobilizing resources, managing data more effectively, and increasing engagement with private sector actors. A major outcome was agreement on a workplan for 2026. Member States reiterated their commitment to carrying out this plan and enhancing information sharing for better monitoring and reporting.
Mr. Emmanuel Billy Konjoh, Chief Director at Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Trade and Industry and Chair of the meeting, stated: “The transformative potential of the AfCFTA for over 400 million West Africans underscores our responsibility to sustain momentum and deepen coordination at all levels.”
Mr. Kolawole Sofola, Director of Trade at ECOWAS Commission speaking on behalf of Dr. Kalilou Sylla, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture said: “Member States are commended for their commitment.” He noted achievements since RAC’s creation including “the consolidation of Trade in Services commitments, capacity-building efforts, and strengthened national implementation structures.”
Madam Stella Ansah, Director at Ghana’s Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry remarked: “Continued collaboration among Member States is needed to consolidate achievements and close remaining gaps.”
Prior to technical sessions a joint opening ceremony took place at Kempinski Hotel with senior officials from Ghana’s government, ECOWAS Commission representatives, AfCFTA Secretariat members, development partners, and delegates from participating states attending.