THE government has pledged to intensify efforts to ensure citizens fully grasp and utilise the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) through widespread education and awareness campaigns.

Speaking at the unveiling of Tanzania’s National Implementation Strategy for AfCFTA in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, Ridhiwani Kikwete, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disabilities), stressed that the success of the trade agreement depends largely on how well Tanzanians understand the new opportunities it creates.

“Empowering people with information is crucial. When farmers, entrepreneurs, and workers understand how AfCFTA operates, they will be better positioned to tap into new markets and job prospects,” he said.

The launch event, convened by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, gathered key government officials and stakeholders committed to enhancing Tanzania’s role in Africa’s integrated market.

Kikwete called for a change in perspective among Tanzanians, encouraging them to view the continent as one unified economic space rather than fragmented national markets.

Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, pledged continued government collaboration to implement AfCFTA initiatives effectively. He also revealed that Tanzania will annually observe July 24 as National AfCFTA Awareness Day to evaluate progress and mobilise further efforts.

AfCFTA offers Tanzanian producers and service providers access to a consumer base exceeding 1.4 billion people, presenting a significant boost to trade, employment, and economic growth.

Dr Jafo emphasised that while the agreement presents great promise, realising its full impact requires that citizens—from youth and women entrepreneurs to small-scale farmers—be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Public education efforts are planned to span schools, media outlets, and community programs, ensuring that the benefits and mechanisms of AfCFTA are understood widely.