Dr. Daniel McKorley, Executive Chairman of McDan Group and AfCFTA General Secretary, Wamkele Mene
Ghanaian business mogul Dr. Daniel McKorley has emphasised the importance of spearheading a bold new initiative to reshape Africa’s trade landscape through the AfCFTA Trading Companies framework.
According to him, the initiative is geared toward the creation of trading companies that will serve as the backbone of intra-African commerce.
“These entities will streamline product aggregation from small and medium enterprises (SMEs), enforce quality standards, and establish efficient value chains to enhance global competitiveness,” he was quoted as saying by The New Crusading Guide Online.
Dr. McKorley acknowledged that access to capital remains a significant hurdle for SMEs and trading companies alike.
“For the AfCFTA Trading Companies framework to succeed, enabling policies and streamlined regulations are essential. Policymakers at the roundtable will examine ways to harmonize trade policies, simplify cross-border compliance, and introduce incentives that encourage the growth of trading companies. The aim is to foster an environment where SMEs can fully benefit from intra-African trade opportunities,” he emphasised.
Africa’s fragmented logistics networks continue to hinder trade efficiency and this initiative seeks to address these challenges through structured trade corridors, optimized transportation systems, and improved market linkages.
Additionally, experts will explore warehousing solutions, cross-border logistics, and digital trade facilitation strategies to unlock Africa’s full trade potential.
The AfCFTA Trading Companies framework is seen as a transformative force for Africa’s economy. By aggregating trade, unlocking financing, and addressing logistical and policy barriers, the initiative is set to redefine Africa’s trade ecosystem.
“This is about creating opportunities for businesses to thrive and for Africa to take its rightful place in global commerce,” Dr. McKorley concluded.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a key project of Agenda 2063, was approved in 2012 to boost intra-African trade and strengthen the continent’s position in global markets.
The single-trade agreement aims to unify Africa’s trade policies, enhance economic growth, and amplify Africa’s voice in global trade negotiations.
MA
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