ICAD calls for dismantling of trade barriers, promote economic sovereignty

The International Conference on Africa’s Democracy has called for the dismantling of borders separating African countries to promote economic sovereignty and shared prosperity across the continent.

The Team Lead of ICAD, Chris Nyama, made the call on Friday in Abuja during a pre-conference briefing ahead of ICAD 2025.

He said existing borders and visa restrictions were hindering intra-African trade and interaction, which continue to limit the continent’s progress.

Mr Nyama stated,

“ICAD was born out of the growing need for systems that reflect Africa’s unique realities. It creates space for bold conversations on governance and development challenges facing the continent. The goal is to sustain critical dialogue on African governance and influence policies that promote economic sovereignty and shared prosperity.’’

He emphasised the need for African leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue around free trade, urging the removal of visa restrictions and other artificial barriers among African nations.

He said, “Why should I pay more as an African to get a Kenyan visa than someone from Canada? Why should a South African need a visa to come to Nigeria? These are the kinds of questions we must begin to address.’’

Mr Nyama explained that the conference was not a rejection of global ideas, but an affirmation of homegrown solutions designed to fit Africa’s needs.

He added, “It is about contributing our own verses to the greater story of human governance through public-private sector collaboration, community-driven efforts, and strategies to reduce dependency, fight illicit financial flows, and leverage African wealth for African futures.’’

He described Africa as a global engine of innovation, hope, and energy, stressing that financial sovereignty is key to the continent’s political liberation.

Also speaking, Director of Programmes at ICAD, Godson Nwankwo, said that African leaders must begin to think proactively and address the continent’s long-standing challenges.

He noted that Africa, despite a population of 1.4 billion people and vast natural resources, still grapples with widespread poverty.

“Africans must tear down the artificial borders created by mistrust. We need to build mutual trust among states and explore solutions that fund Africa, promote inclusive governance, and harness youth potential, especially in the digital space,” he said.

ICAD 2025, themed “Afro-Democracy: Building Governance Systems That Work in Africa for Africans,” is the inaugural edition and will be held from July 22 to 23.

ICAD is a pan-African platform that brings together thought leaders, scholars, policymakers, civil society actors, and youths to develop homegrown solutions to the continent’s development challenges.

Among key figures expected at ICAD 2025 are Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya; Raila Odinga, Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima; and Speaker, Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.