Despite its vast resources and production capacity, Africa remains heavily reliant on external markets. This state of affairs has prompted Botswana to raise the alarm about low levels of intra-African trade.
“It’s disheartening that Africa is still unable to realize trade among its countries,” said Dr Phenyo Butale, Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, delivering a lecture in honour of the late South African Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Aziz Pahad at the North-West University (NWU) on 25 February 2025.
Emphasizing the need for stronger economic ties among African nations, Dr Butale questioned why countries continue to import goods readily available within the continent.
“We should be asking ourselves how to make intra-Africa trade a reality,” he said. “How do we ensure that African countries trade among themselves? We have high-quality beef in Botswana and the North West province, we export it to the European Union, yet Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo buy their beef from Brazil. Does that make sense? It doesn’t.”
His remarks highlighted concerns that African countries undermine their economic growth by prioritising trade with Europe and the United States over regional markets. Some argue that this practice contributes to economic stagnation.
Dr Butale also reflected on the diplomatic legacy of Dr Aziz Pahad who played a key role in shaping Africa’s foreign policy through institutions such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community.
“Dr Pahad understood that for South Africa to thrive, Africa must thrive. His diplomatic acumen and strategic engagement served as a guiding light. He taught us that dialogue, not the barrel of a gun, is the surest way to resolve conflict.”
He added that the call for increased intra-African trade comes amid broader efforts to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement, which aims to create a unified market. However, logistical, regulatory and production challenges continue to hinder its full realisation.
Dr Butale’s comments underscore the urgency of shifting trade priorities within the continent. “The question is not whether Africa can trade within itself,” he said. “It is whether we are willing to make it happen.”