…AfCFTA Scribe Customs Synergy Key to Continental trade
The AfreximBank’s Executive Vice President for Intra-African Trade, Kanayo Awani, has assured the readiness of the bank in supporting Customs modernisation across Africa, including transit-bond guarantees, digital tracking systems, and the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund to help countries offset tariff revenue losses.
Speaking at the C-PACT summit in Abuja, she said Africa cannot realise the benefits of AfCFTA without harmonised systems and interoperable Customs operations.
Meanwhile, the AfCFTA Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene said that implementing the agreement’s annexes on Customs cooperation, transit, and trade facilitation requires Customs leadership at every stage.
He praised Nigeria’s leadership and the CGC’s role as Chair of the WCO Council, stating that Africa relies on Customs to translate trade rules into practical border outcomes that lower costs, reduce bureaucracy, and protect market access for African products.
