Isn’t It Time to Consider Exporting Blankets to Congo!

By Ayman Okeil

Who among us doesn’t remember the iconic scene from the movie “Rumors of Love,” where the talented Abdel Moneim Ibrahim imitated Youssef Wehbe and skeptically asked, “Oh, Abdel Mohemen, will you send blankets to the people of Congo… for what reason? It a hot country.” Some still recall this scene with laughter, while others may question the significance of an African country exporting blankets to another nation. However, as I firmly believe that mockery represents the lowest form of intelligence, I did not view this scene as sarcastic. Instead, it offers a glimpse into the solution for African countries to foster robust and stable intra-trade.

Trade, as we know, serves as the engine of economic growth, intricately linked to the status and history of nations, and contributes to their overall well-being. So why not encourage African countries to export their own goods and meet their own needs? It is only natural to wonder when we will cease relying on countries beyond our continent’s borders to fulfill our basic necessities. Research conducted by United Nations Economic Commission for Africa reveals that increased trade between nations leads to exchange of more goods, knowledge transfer, and creation of greater value. However, conversely, trade between African countries has been declining. The latest available statistics indicate a decrease in intra-African trade as a share of global trade from 14.5% in 2021 to 13.7% in 2022. During the same period, intra-African exports dropped from 18.2% to 17.89%, and imports between African countries also witnessed a decline.

Therefore, while Abdel Moneim Ibrahim’s statement was made in a comedic context, if we were to implement it in reality, it would have a positive impact, not only in terms of exporting blankets but also various other goods and commodities. If African countries begin to enhance trade among themselves, it would also contribute to the realization of the goals outlined in the ten-year implementation plan for Agenda 2063, spanning the period from 2024 to 2033.

This ambitious plan includes initiatives such as African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), African passport, and the unified African air transport market. It also aligns with the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, with its core principle of leaving no one behind. I strongly advocate for an increased activation of trade between African countries and the full implementation of AfCFTA agreement, which calls African countries to eliminate customs duties on 90% of all goods. This step would empower African continent to navigate a world filled with crises and challenges.