Efforts to strengthen trade across Africa gained new momentum this week as senior officials from the region gathered in Nairobi for the 41st COMESA Trade talks and Customs Committee meeting.
The four-day COMESA trade talks, which run from 22 to 25 July, brought together trade and customs experts to explore ways of easing intra-Africa trade, breaking down non-tariff barriers, and building supply chains that can withstand both economic shocks and climate threats.
Deputy Director Alex Tomerang, speaking on behalf of Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam, welcomed the delegates and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to regional integration.
“This committee plays a key role in aligning our customs systems and improving the free flow of goods across borders. It’s about building an African market that works for all of us,” said Tomerang.
Intra-Africa Trade Still Falling Short
The discussions come at a time when global supply chains remain fragile, prompting COMESA to prioritize internal markets especially in sectors like agriculture, mining, and tourism, where the potential for job creation and resilience is high.
Dr. Christopher Onyango, COMESA’s Assistant Secretary General, urged member states to act with urgency. He stated that intra-COMESA trade still makes up less than 10% of the bloc’s total exports, well below the 25% target set in its 2021–2025 strategy.
“If we strengthen our systems and remove barriers we could redirect over $100 billion worth of trade into our own markets. The potential is real, but we must act boldly ,”Onyango said.
He highlighted ongoing reforms, including the adoption of flexible rules of origin and digital platforms designed to resolve trade disputes more efficiently.
Onyango also emphasized the importance of supporting small-scale cross-border traders, who are often the backbone of local economies.
What’s on the Table
Over the course of the week, officials are reviewing key proposals and reports that will shape the bloc’s future trade policies. These include:
Progress from capacity-building workshops on trade in services
Recommendations from the customs and trade facilitation sub-committees
Proposals to align COMESA’s rules of origin with global best practices
A digital roadmap, including tools like the e-Certificate of Origin
A draft strategy linking COMESA’s vision with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Held under the theme “Accelerating Regional Integration through the Development of Regional Value Chains in Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Mining, and Tourism,” the COMESA trade talks are expected to deliver key policy directions as the bloc prepares its 2026–2030 strategic plan.
“It’s our chance to transform, talk into action to empower small businesses, draw meaningful investment, and shape a future of shared growth,” said Tomerang.
With attention now firmly on Nairobi, hopes are high that the outcomes of this week’s discussions will breathe new life into regional trade and set the stage for a more connected, prosperous COMESA region.
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