The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat is a key institution in the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement, which aims to create a single, liberalized market for goods and services across Africa. Here are some key points about the AfCFTA Secretariat: - Location and Role: The AfCFTA Secretariat is based in Accra, Ghana, and plays a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement among African states. It engages stakeholders to promote the AfCFTA and undertakes trade and investment promotion activities to enhance intra-African trade[1][4]. - Leadership: The Secretariat is led by a Secretary General, currently Wamkele Mene, who was sworn in on March 19, 2020. He is responsible for providing leadership and technical support to the Secretariat and managing its day-to-day operations[2]. - Objectives and Impact: The AfCFTA aims to boost intra-African trade, stimulate production through regional value chains, and strengthen African companies' capacities to access global markets. It is expected to significantly enhance economic integration and development across the continent[3][4]. - Operational Phase: The operational phase of the AfCFTA was launched in July 2019, with trading commencing on January 1, 2021. The Secretariat facilitates the efficient conduct of business under the AfCFTA, developing working programs and annual budgets[3][4]. - Institutional Framework: The AfCFTA's institutional framework includes the Assembly, Council of Ministers, and Committee of Senior Trade Officials. These bodies work together to implement the agreement and make decisions on trade matters[4]. The AfCFTA Secretariat's work is critical to realizing the vision of a unified African market, as outlined in Agenda 2063, which seeks to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development across Africa[5].