The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a transformative opportunity for economic integration and development across the continent. At its core, the recently adopted Digital Trade Protocol (DTP) is a vital instrument for realizing the full potential of this agreement in the digital age. By aiming to harmonize digital trade regulations, facilitate cross-border data flows, enhance cybersecurity, and promote digital inclusion, the DTP has profound implications for the success of "Digital Africa." Its effective implementation and strategic utilization can unlock new avenues for economic growth, innovation, and social progress, aligning with broader global and regional digital cooperation efforts. This session will critically examine the key provisions of the AfCFTA DTP and explore how African nations can collaboratively leverage it to empower their digital futures and contribute to the global digital landscape.

Objective:
To analyze the potential of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol to accelerate the growth and inclusivity of Africa's digital economy, fostering continental cooperation and aligning with global digital cooperation frameworks.

Key Discussion Areas:
• Harmonizing Digital Ecosystems for Continental Trade
• Boosting Cross-Border Digital Commerce and Services
• Strengthening Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity for AfCFTA Implementation
• Enhancing Cybersecurity and Building Trust in the AfCFTA Digital Space
• The AfCFTA DTP and Global Digital Cooperation Agendas

Panelists:

1. Dr. Talkmore chided (PhD) – Digital Trade expert at (AfCFTA) Secretariat-IGOs talkmorechidede@gmail.com -Zimbabwe
2. Dr. Tsotetsi Makong (PhD)– Director Coordination and Programmes at (AfCFTA) Secretariat– IGOs makongt@gmail.com Speaker (AfDTPA) -Lesotho
3. Assistant Prof. Asrat Mulatu (PhD)- Internet Society Ethiopia Chapter President-asrat.mulatu@aastu.edu.et, Ethiopia
4. Athanase-Bahizire- ISOC Ambassador, Programs Alumni- atholabahizire@gmail.com, Democratic Republic of the Congo