The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has called for accelerated progress on African integration, warning that persistent gaps in mobility and infrastructure continue to hinder trade, migration, and economic growth across the continent.
In a new report titled Africa on the Move: Boosting Mobility and Connectivity, released on May 11 to coincide with the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, the foundation highlights both the opportunities and structural challenges facing Africa as it seeks to deepen regional integration and implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The report underscores that improved movement of people, goods, and services—alongside stronger transport and infrastructure networks—is essential to unlocking Africa’s economic potential. It notes that full implementation of the AfCFTA could raise intra-African trade from around 18 percent to 53 percent, expand manufacturing output by $1 trillion, generate $470 billion in additional income, and create up to 14 million jobs by 2035.
Despite these prospects, progress remains uneven. The foundation points to significant barriers to the free movement of people, with only four countries—Mali, Niger, Rwanda, and São Tomé and Príncipe—having ratified the African Union’s 2018 Free Movement of Persons Protocol. Currently, just 28 percent of African citizens can travel visa-free within the continent, while limited recognition of educational and professional qualifications further restricts cross-border opportunities.
Trade in goods and services also faces obstacles beyond tariffs. The report highlights the impact of non-tariff barriers such as regulatory standards, customs procedures, and limited currency convertibility, which together cost the continent an estimated $5 billion annually in conversion expenses.
On the infrastructure front, Africa’s connectivity remains largely underdeveloped and oriented toward exporting raw materials rather than facilitating intra-continental links. Transport systems are often inefficient and costly, with road networks frequently incomplete and unsafe, and rail systems suffering from poor interoperability and outdated technology. At least 13 countries—many of them landlocked—still lack direct rail access to seaports.
Air transport is expanding but remains expensive and limited, while inland waterways are significantly underutilized. As a result, travel within Africa is often slower, more expensive, and less direct than in other regions.
The report also examines the role of external partners in addressing infrastructure gaps. While initiatives such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the European Union’s Global Gateway have increased investment, the foundation notes that many projects continue to prioritize export-oriented corridors. It also raises concerns about the environmental impact of infrastructure development and the need for climate-resilient systems.
Mo Ibrahim, Founder and Chair of the foundation, emphasized the urgency of reform. “Africa will not harness its potential while mobility is restricted and connectivity remains outdated,” he said. “It is time to press the accelerator on regional integration and take ownership of the continent’s vast assets.”
The foundation concludes that advancing mobility and connectivity will require stronger political commitment from African governments, alongside sustained financial and technical support from international partners.
