The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has stated that security and free movement are not competing goals, rather complementary aspects of Africa’s economic transformation.
Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2026 in Accra, Hon. Muntaka stressed that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a historic opportunity for economic integration, but its success depends on addressing security concerns, migration governance, and border management challenges.
“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.
The Hon. Minister highlighted the need for smart, coordinated, and technology-enabled approaches to facilitate trade while enhancing safety and trust. He cited the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons as a successful example of regional integration, enabling visa-free travel for up to 90 days across West Africa.
He also emphasized the importance of a common and harmonised African Union biometric identity system, stating that “a borderless Africa does not mean borderless security; it means smart borders.”
He called for a shift from siloed operations to integrated border management, investing in capacity-building for frontline officers, and deploying technology-driven clearance and verification systems. ‘Let us build an Africa where goods move freely, people move safely, and prosperity moves widely,” he said.
Hon. Elizabeth Agyare Ofosu, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, noted that addressing the financing gaps of SMEs remains a priority, but government is committed to finding solutions.
She urged participants a productive deliberation.
The Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2026, aims to drive practical solutions 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.
