The African Union Chair has called for the elimination of trade tariffs and visa restrictions between the United States and African nations to unlock the full potential of U.S.–Africa economic relations. Speaking at a high-level summit, the Chair emphasized that reducing these barriers will accelerate investment, improve market access, and foster mutual economic growth. The appeal aligns with the AU’s broader vision for a more integrated and globally competitive Africa.
Speaking to over 2,000 delegates at the U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Luanda, he emphasized that Africa’s 1.3 billion people and vast natural resources represent one of the world’s largest untapped markets.
“We’re not seeking aid, but building co-created solutions, emphasizing Africa’s desire for sustainable partnerships rooted in mutual growth,” he said.
Youssouf urged stakeholders to view the summit as a “call to action” aligned with Africa’s long-term development vision.
Meanwhile, Angolan President João Lourenço underscored the importance of transitioning from aid-driven assistance to trade and investment.
He encouraged U.S. investors to explore Africa’s potential beyond traditional sectors like oil and mining, highlighting opportunities in automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, tourism, cement, and steel.
In addition, African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina backed these calls, advocating for a review of high U.S. tariffs on African exports.
“We need more trade between Africa and the U.S., not less, referencing the Lobito Corridor, a key infrastructure investment jointly backed by AfDB to link Zambia and DR Congo to Angola’s port facilities.
He said the Bank has pledged US $1.5 billion in complementary investments to support corridor-linked agriculture, energy, and transport.
Nonetheless, AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene added weight to the message by stressing Africa’s regional integration priorities through the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He also called for cross-border “scale investments, reduced fragmentation, and accelerated industrial development.”
From the U.S. side, State Department official Troy Fitrell stressed that U.S. business leaders must recalibrate their understanding of Africa.
“Our mission is to find them and bring them in,” he said,
He outlined efforts to connect American investors with African market opportunities.
The push for investment over aid was echoed by Corporate Council on Africa President Florie Liser, who called for “lasting transformation,” not just short-term gains.
Importantly, to harness Africa’s economic potential, both sides must tackle barriers, tariffs, visas, infrastructure and shift from an aid mindset to partnerships based on trade, investment, integration, and industrial innovation.
Last Updated on June 25, 2025 by Senel Media
