Malawi Journalists Upskilled to Amplify AfCFTA Benefits
Journalists play a crucial role in educating the public and policymakers about AfCFTA's benefits, helping drive greater regional integration and economic growth.
MZUZU, Malawi— Malawian journalists are being challenged to move beyond traditional trade reporting and instead focus on promoting the transformative potential of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), writes Lusekero Mhango.
The call came during a three-day media workshop organized by the Ministry of Trade and GIZ, in partnership with the Association of Business Journalists (ABJ).
The training aimed to enhance reporters' capacity to effectively cover AfCFTA in both English and the local Chichewa language.
"By opening borders and allowing Africans to trade freely, AfCFTA creates economic prosperity," said Adam Alqali, a Nigerian journalist and Editor-in-Chief of the African News Page, who served as a facilitator.
"This is similar to the European Union, where there's free movement of people and goods."
With a population of 1.3 billion and a combined GDP of over $3 trillion, Africa represents a vast market with immense growth potential that journalists can help unlock, Alqali added.
Currently, intra-African trade stands at just 16%, far below Europe's 70% and Asia's 60%.
Experts believe AfCFTA's elimination of trade barriers can significantly boost commerce across the continent.
"The training equipped journalists to better communicate AfCFTA's benefits, particularly in helping traders and companies add value to their products," said Alepha Kasongo, a workshop participant.
ABJ Treasurer Wezzie Nyilongo Chamandza emphasised the importance of accurate reporting to effectively inform the public about the trade agreement.
"We partnered with the Ministry of Trade to address gaps in how journalists report on trade agreements," Chamandza said.
The workshop represents a broader push to leverage the media's influence in promoting AfCFTA, which aims to create a single market for all 55 African Union member states.
Successful implementation could transform the continent's economy and create new opportunities for Malawian businesses.
Journalists play a crucial role in educating the public and policymakers about AfCFTA's benefits, helping drive greater regional integration and economic growth.