Title: Innovative engineering solutions for a sustainable Africa by leveraging on the African Continental Free Trade Area

Authors: Ifeanyi E. Kalu; Austine Amoke; Edith Y. Ishidi

Addresses: Materials Science Unit, Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Sheda, Kwali, P.M.B 186 Garki, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria ' Materials Science Unit, Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Sheda, Kwali, P.M.B 186 Garki, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria ' Materials Science Unit, Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Sheda, Kwali, P.M.B 186 Garki, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria

Abstract: The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a transformative initiative that aims to boost regional commerce and productivity, reduce poverty, strengthen economies, promote inclusiveness, and enhance governance among member states. With a population of 1.35 billion people and a GDP of around $3 trillion, the AfCFTA is one of the largest free trade zones in the world. It is projected to increase the continent's income by 7%, lift 30 million people out of poverty, and grow exports by $560 billion by 2035. Additionally, it has the potential to accelerate Africa's GDP to $29 trillion by 2050. However, the timely implementation of the AfCFTA faces several challenges. This paper examines potential obstacles to its full implementation, the benefits of timely execution, and its impact on socio-economic development. It proposes innovative engineering solutions and actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry professionals to enhance the AfCFTA's performance and contribute to sustainable development.

Keywords: innovative; engineering solutions; sustainable Africa; AfCFTA; Africa GDP; intra-regional trade; development; Sustainable Development Goals; SDGs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSD.2026.152816

International Journal of Sustainable Development, 2026 Vol.29 No.2, pp.220 - 239

Received: 04 Sep 2024
Accepted: 24 Jul 2025
Published online: 13 Apr 2026 *

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