The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a significant step towards economic integration across the African continent, akin to the European Union. As of April 2, 2019, The Gambia's ratification marked the 22nd country to do so, meeting the threshold required for the agreement to move forward. This map highlights the status of each African country's involvement in the AfCFTA, with countries either having signed or ratified the agreement. The majority of countries, including economic powerhouses like South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria, have ratified the agreement, indicating a strong commitment to the vision of a unified African market. However, some countries, such as Nigeria, have only signed the agreement, suggesting a more cautious approach. The potential market size of $2.3 trillion and a population of 1.2 billion underscore the transformative impact this agreement could have on the continent's economic landscape. The AfCFTA aims to create the world's largest free movement and single-currency union, fostering trade and economic growth. This initiative could significantly enhance intra-African trade, reduce dependency on external markets, and promote sustainable development. The map visually distinguishes between countries that have signed and those that have ratified the agreement, providing a clear overview of the current state of continental economic integration efforts.
