Parliamentarians gain tools to drive AfCFTA integration |24 June 2026

Hon. Dumelang Saleshando

Parliamentarians gain tools to drive AfCFTA integration

The first phase of a pioneering capacity-building partnership between the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) concluded on June 5, 2026, after eight intensive training sessions. The programme strengthened the role of parliamentarians and parliamentary staff across 15 SADC countries in advancing regional trade integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Launched virtually in November 2025, the programme brought together members of Parliament and staff to deepen their understanding of trade governance, investment, digital trade, gender-responsive trade policy, non-tariff barriers, and regional economic integration. The final session focused on the AfCFTA Investment Protocol, private sector engagement, regional value chains, and the persistent challenge of non-tariff barriers (NTBs).

By Moses Magadza

Media and communications manager at the SADC PF

Photos: SADC PF/contributed

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