The 16th High-Level African Union Private Sector Forum (AU PSF) successfully concluded its three-day session in Djibouti, held from December 08 to 10, Dec 2025. The Forum gathered leaders from government, the private sector, and continental bodies under the theme: "Harnessing Africa’s Digital Economy and Innovation for Accelerating Intra-Africa Trade and Sustainable Development".
The objective of the Forum was to foster strategic dialogue and action-oriented collaboration among key actors in the African digital ecosystem to stimulate intra-African trade, accelerate economic transformation, and promote inclusive and sustainable development. The Forum successfully addressed key aspects of Africa’s digital journey through high-level panel sessions focused on Digital Economy and Trade Integration under the AFCFTA; Innovation, Fintech, and Youth Entrepreneurship; and Policy, Regulatory Frameworks, and Partnerships necessary for enabling digital growth. The proceedings culminated in the adoption of the "Djibouti Declaration," a document anticipated to mark a significant step in the collective journey toward a digitally sovereign and economically integrated Africa.
In her Opening remarks delivered by Amb. Fathallah Sijilmassi, Director General of African Union Commission, H.E. Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Mining underscored the critical role of digital technologies in achieving the continent's integration and development goals. “The Forum’s focus is deeply rooted in the continent’s long-term vision, which calls for a prosperous Africa, based on inclusive growth and sustainable development”
In his address, Mr. Mohammed Warsama, Minister of Trade and Tourism of the Republic of Djibouti, highlighted the nation’s strategic contribution to continental commerce and integration, asserting: "Due to its geostrategic position, the density of its port, logistical, and digital infrastructures, it is necessary to prove that Djibouti is already working towards the advent of an integrated Africa and aspires to play a greater catalytic role in facilitating African commercial trade". He further emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector, stating: "You are the builders of African value chains, the bearers of innovative solutions, and the drivers of sustainable growth". The commitment and expertise of all participants, partners, and organizers were lauded as the guarantee of the Forum's success. The Minister of Trade and Tourism extended warm wishes for success to all African countries, the African Union Commission, and its Chairperson, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
Continental private sector leaders stressed that digital transformation is not merely a goal but an essential tool for achieving sovereignty and competitiveness. Dr. Amany Asfour, President of the Africa Business Council, stated: “Digital Economy is a tool that will enable us to realize our African Aspirations, we need to have technology if we want marketing for our products and industrialization.”
In her closing remarks, delivered by Ron Osman Omar, Director for Industry, Minerals, Entrepreneurship, and tourism, H.E. Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Mines, noted that: "This Forum has clearly demonstrated that Africa is not waiting for an invitation to enter into the global digital future; it is actively shaping it."
Highlighting the transformative power of the continent's innovators, she added, "We witnessed the remarkable energy of our young innovators... a powerful reminder that Africa's future is not just digital: it is creative, entrepreneurial, and proudly African."
The Commissioner urged participants to carry forward three key imperatives:
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Prioritize implementation, because frameworks must be translated into action
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Embrace speed, because the digital economy evolves quickly, and Africa must move even faster
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Ensure inclusion, so that no citizen, no SME, and no region is left behind
She concluded with a reaffirmation of partnership: "Africa’s digital future will be built by the private sector, driven by public sector leadership, and supported by continental integration. Your partnership is not optional: it is indispensable."
In addition, A FinTech and Digital Innovation Exhibition was organized as one of the major highlights of the event, bringing together leading African FinTech companies, startups, and technology providers. The exhibition showcased solutions in digital payments, cross-border trade facilitation, financial inclusion, and e-commerce, demonstrating how homegrown innovations are already transforming Africa’s digital economy and supporting intra-African trade under the AfCFTA.
The Forum also hosted an Impact-Oriented Pitching Competition, designed to spotlight innovative African startups and entrepreneurs whose solutions address critical development challenges while generating measurable economic and social impact. The competition provided a platform for innovators to present scalable solutions in areas such as FinTech, digital trade, MSME digitization, and inclusive finance. Participants received exposure to policymakers, investors, and development partners, reinforcing the Forum’s commitment to nurturing innovation-driven, impact-focused entrepreneurship across the continent.
Key Recommendations Adopted
The participants adopted a set of focused and actionable recommendations to accelerate the digital agenda, including:
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Digital Trade & Regulatory Harmonization: AU Member States are urged to ratify and domesticate the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol and align national laws with continental standards on data protection, cybersecurity, and e-commerce. The AfCFTA Secretariat is tasked with developing implementation guidelines and model regulations
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Digital Infrastructure & Connectivity: AU Member States must expand broadband, last-mile connectivity, and data infrastructure, prioritizing rural and underserved communities. The Private Sector is called upon to invest in digital public infrastructure (cloud, data centers) through technology-neutral, innovative models, and Member States are encouraged to adopt well-structured PPP models
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MSME Digitization, Entrepreneurship & Innovation: AU Member States are recommended to integrate digital, AI, cybersecurity, and e-commerce skills into national education and entrepreneurship programmes. The Private Sector and Financial Institutions should provide MSMEs with access to digital tools, cloud services, finance, incubation, and mentorship.
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FinTech, Digital Payments & Financial Inclusion: Central Banks are tasked with promoting the interoperability of digital payment systems.
For further information, please contact:
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Mr. Islam Swaleh | Head | Entrepreneurship and Investment Division, ETTIM African Union Commission | Swalehi@africanunion.org |
Media Contact:
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Mr. Noel John | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: Kenyin@africanunion.org
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Meaza Tezera | ETTIM | African Union Commission | Meaza Tezera | E-mail: Meazat@africanunion.org
