Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for immediate action to ensure the success of the Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) currently taking place in Grenada.

Speaking at a panel discussion at the Africaribbean Trade and Investment Forum currently underway in Grenada, Browne emphasized the importance of not allowing the initiative to become a mere “talk shop.

Browne expressed strong support for the proposal to establish a commission dedicated to fostering trade and investment links between Africa and the Caribbean.

However, he stressed that the commission should extend beyond bureaucrats and technocrats to include political involvement.

“We need political direction to achieve quick action and tap into the ‘low-hanging fruits’ available to us,” he stated. Highlighting known obstacles such as inadequate infrastructure for the movement of people and goods, Browne expressed optimism that a robust partnership between the public and private sectors could overcome these challenges.

“If we can’t move people and goods efficiently, our efforts will not be successful,” he warned, advocating for sustainable air and sea links. As the community gears up for the upcoming Africa-Caribbean summit in Addis Ababa, Browne hopes to secure a commitment from leaders to prioritize essential investments and infrastructure.

He suggested initiating studies to determine the best way to establish air and sea connections, pointing to the African Export-Import Bank as a potential source of seed funding. Discussions among CARICOM leaders have also included plans to acquire vessels to enhance intra-regional trade.

Browne urged a broader engagement with Africa to further enhance trade links.

Acknowledging the current geopolitical challenges, Browne stated, “We must become architects of our own development, moving away from extractive economies that benefit the Global North.”

He called for increased investment in processing local products to maximize value and stimulate trade. Browne also touched upon tourism opportunities, noting the potential for increased travel between the Caribbean and Africa, which is currently hindered by high costs and logistical challenges.

“Establishing direct links would enable us to move people and capital efficiently,” he remarked.

Browne also reiterated the strong political will among attendees and urged for swift action to strengthen institutional arrangements and make necessary investments.

“This is a pivotal moment for increasing trade and the movement of people, both regionally and between Africa and the Caribbean,” he affirmed.
With the momentum of ACTIF behind them, leaders are now tasked with transforming dialogue into impactful action for the benefit of both regions.

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Motley, St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew, and Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickenson Mitchel were also part of the panel discussion.