The growing demand for continental integration in Africa has sparked a renewed push for a single passport, allowing citizens to move freely across borders.
This proposal, reignited at the recent Africa We Want Parliament 2024, aims to unlock the full potential of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Experts argue that economic freedom cannot be achieved without political commitment to integrated policies, including the free movement of people. Ambassador Young Piero, Africa Coordinator at the AU, emphasizes that current restrictions on movement hinder Africa's development.
He advocates for a comprehensive blueprint that prioritizes the free movement of people, goods, and capital, paving the way for economic growth and industrialization.
Piero stresses that a single passport is crucial for realizing the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063, the AU's blueprint for a prosperous Africa. He calls for a collaborative approach, starting with regional passports as a stepping stone towards a unified continent.
Bernard Kasekete, CEO of GOHORI Resort in Zimbabwe, echoes the call for youth empowerment and resource utilization. He urges young Africans to embrace entrepreneurship and take ownership of their continent's resources, contributing to a brighter future.
Both experts agree that the time for action is now. They emphasize the need for a collective effort, with young Africans playing a pivotal role in shaping their destiny and driving progress towards a unified and prosperous Africa. The story is from The Ethiopian Press Agency.