Africa’s Digital Economy to Drive Intra-Trade and Sustainable Development at AU Forum. Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti — 2025-12-11 LEAD PARAGRAPH The African Union (AU) is set to host the 16th African Union Private Sector Forum in Djibouti from December 14 to 16, 2025.
The event aims to harness Africa’s digital economy to accelerate intra-Africa trade and sustainable development, underlining the continent’s commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
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The forum, themed “Harnessing Africa’s Digital Economy and Innovation for Accelerating Intra-Africa Trade and Sustainable Development, “will feature high-level discussions, expert panels, and networking opportunities. Each day will focus on a core aspect of Africa’s digital transformation journey, including leveraging digital platforms for trade integration and driving economic inclusion through fintech and youth entrepreneurship.
According to the AU, despite the significant progress made in expanding mobile connectivity and internet penetration, challenges remain. These include limited digital infrastructure, disparities in digital literacy, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and gender gaps in digital participation.
The implementation of the AfCFTA has opened new opportunities for market integration, but Africa must assert its digital sovereignty, build local data ecosystems, and secure cyber — infrastructure to thrive in the global digital landscape.
The forum will also aim to promote digital trade, foster innovation and fintech, harmonize policy and regulatory frameworks, encourage investment and public — private partnerships, and advance digital inclusion and sustainability. ENDING.
The AU Private Sector Forum has been a platform for strategic dialogue and action — oriented collaboration among key stakeholders in Africa’s digital ecosystem.
Further details regarding the outcomes of the forum are expected in the coming days.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
