President Advocate Duma Boko has arrived in Lusaka, Zambia, to participate in the first-ever African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade and Services Forum, taking place from May 8 to 9 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.
The high-level gathering is themed “Unlocking the Power of Digital Trade under AfCFTA” and brings together African heads of state, business leaders, policymakers, and digital innovators to explore the transformative potential of digital trade in accelerating economic growth and regional integration across the continent.
President Boko’s presence underscores Botswana’s commitment to embracing digital innovation and strengthening continental collaboration under the AfCFTA framework. His participation is expected to further enhance Botswana’s digital trade ambitions, particularly in the areas of cross-border services, e-commerce, and digital infrastructure development.
During his visit, President Boko will pay a courtesy call on the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema. The two leaders are expected to discuss matters of mutual interest, particularly around digital transformation, economic cooperation, and enhancing bilateral trade.
In addition to attending the forum’s plenary sessions and stakeholder meetings, President Boko is also touring key exhibitions at the Digital Trade Forum. These exhibitions showcase innovative digital solutions from African tech entrepreneurs and startups, as well as infrastructure and services designed to support the growth of intra-African trade in the digital era.
The AfCFTA Digital Trade and Services Forum is seen as a vital platform for charting the future of Africa’s digital economy. It aims to identify policy priorities, share best practices, and build networks that will drive inclusive and sustainable digital growth.
President Boko’s participation in the forum signals a forward-looking vision and Botswana’s readiness to play a leading role in shaping Africa’s digital trade landscape under the AfCFTA.