Tanzanians must be equipped with the right knowledge and awareness to fully benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), says Ridhiwani Kikwete, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disabilities).
Minister Kikwete made these remarks during the official launch of Tanzania’s National Implementation Strategy for the AfCFTA Agreement, held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dar es Salaam.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, brought together government leaders and key stakeholders committed to advancing trade across Africa.
In his address, Minister Kikwete applauded the Ministry of Industry and Trade for its strong efforts and urged all involved to prioritize public education.
“We must make sure that this information reaches the people at all levels. Education is the bridge that will help ordinary Tanzanians understand and seize the new business and employment opportunities that AfCFTA brings,” he said.
He emphasized the need to change public perception around trade, encouraging Tanzanians to see beyond borders and think of Africa as one large market full of possibilities.
The event’s guest of honor, Dr. Selemani Jafo – Minister of Industry and Trade – thanked his fellow ministers and pledged continued collaboration to achieve the government’s vision under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He reaffirmed the government's dedication to making AfCFTA work for Tanzanians, especially youth, women, and small business owners.
As a key highlight, Dr. Jafo announced that July 24th will be recognized annually as a National AfCFTA Awareness Day – a time when stakeholders will meet to assess progress, share success stories, and tackle challenges in implementing the trade agreement.
The African Free Trade Area is a powerful platform that opens up trade across the entire continent – creating access to over 1.4 billion consumers.
For Tanzanian farmers, small business owners, manufacturers, and service providers, this means more markets, more jobs, and more growth.
But to benefit, citizens must understand how it works and how to participate. That’s why public education – in schools, through media, and local communities – is critical.
Minister Kikwete’s message is clear: “Knowledge is power – and with the right knowledge, Tanzanians can lead Africa’s trade future.”