Five Mindset Shifts to Unlock Intra-African Trade: A Perspective from African CEOs

About The Book

Africa has the resources, talent and market potential to become a major global economic force, yet trade between African countries remains constrained by fragmented regulations, restrictive border processes, infrastructure gaps and continued reliance on imported products. Developed by the Africa Business Leaders Coalition, with support from Boston Consulting Group, this report presents a private-sector perspective on how Africa can accelerate implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area and build a more connected and competitive continental market.

The report identifies five mindset shifts needed to unlock intra-African trade, including stronger continental collaboration, investment in African value chains, easier movement of people and goods, connected infrastructure and more urgent action. Kenyan business perspectives are represented by Karim Dostmohamed, General Manager of Frigoken Limited, who calls for Africa to retain more value through local production and processing, and Martin Ochien’g, Group Managing Director of Sasini PLC, who emphasizes the urgency of advancing intra-African trade before external actors continue to shape the continent’s business agenda.

Through business insights, data and practical case studies, the report outlines actions governments and companies can take to reduce trade barriers, strengthen confidence in African-made products and demonstrate visible progress within the next few years. It offers a timely and practical roadmap for businesses, policymakers and partners working to realize the full promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area