Mahama Identifies Infrastructure Gaps as Major Obstacle to AfCFTA Success

President John Dramani Mahama has pointed to inadequate transport infrastructure across Africa as a key challenge preventing countries on the continent from fully benefiting from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He said poor road networks connecting neighbouring countries, limited railway links and insufficient port facilities continued to hinder efficient trade across the continent, despite efforts to create a unified African market under the agreement.

Speaking ahead of a planned bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, President Mahama explained that although the AfCFTA had established a framework for a single continental market, infrastructure deficiencies remained a significant obstacle to achieving its objectives.

“Even though we have passed what we call the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which makes the whole of Africa one market, we cannot get the full potential of the AfCFTA because we do not even have the infrastructure for trading amongst ourselves,” he said.

The President highlighted gaps in road connectivity between neighbouring states, the absence of railway connections in some areas and inadequate port infrastructure as critical issues requiring urgent attention to boost trade among African countries.

He stressed the need for stronger international partnerships to help bridge these infrastructure gaps, pointing to Russia as a potential partner in Africa’s development efforts.

President Mahama described Russia as a longstanding ally of the continent, referencing its historical support for African countries in their struggles against colonialism and apartheid.

“Russia has been a friend and has expressed solidarity with Africa on very key issues. You took part in the fight against apartheid, advocacy against colonialism and so we see Russia as a true friend,” he said.

He added that closer cooperation between Africa and Russia could deepen relations between the two sides and support their shared development objectives.

The President’s remarks underscore the importance of investment in roads, railways and port facilities in improving connectivity, reducing barriers to cross-border trade and unlocking the full economic potential of the AfCFTA.