Security and free movement key to Africa’s economic transformation – Muntaka

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has stressed that security and free movement across the continent are not competing goals, but complementary pillars essential to Africa’s economic transformation.

Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2026 in Accra, Muntaka highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a historic opportunity for continental economic integration.

He, however, cautioned that its success hinges on effectively addressing security challenges, migration governance, and border management.

“The theme today, Empowering SMEs, Women, and Youth in Africa’s single market through innovation, collaboration, and trade, resonates deeply. At its heart are our Small and Medium Enterprises, the lifeblood of African economies,” he stated.

Muntaka called for smart, coordinated, and technology-driven approaches to facilitate trade while ensuring safety and trust. He cited the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons as a model, enabling visa-free travel for up to 90 days across West Africa, and stressed the importance of a common and harmonised African Union biometric identity system.

He urged a shift from siloed operations to integrated border management, investment in capacity-building for frontline officers, and deployment of technology-enabled clearance and verification systems.

“Let us build an Africa where goods move freely, people move safely, and prosperity moves widely,” he added.

Elizabeth Agyare Ofosu, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, highlighted that addressing the financing gaps faced by SMEs remains a priority for the government.

She called on participants to engage in productive deliberations aimed at finding practical solutions.

The Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2026 seeks to drive actionable strategies for Africa’s economic integration. The programme features high-level discussions, panel sessions, and networking opportunities, bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to explore innovations, collaborations, and trade opportunities across the continent.