As part of the implementation of the first pillar of its national strategy, which focuses on fostering national ownership of the Agreement, the National Committee of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA-NC), under the auspices of the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and SME Promotion, organized an afterwork event dedicated to Ivorian bloggers.The event, which brought together approximately 50 participants, was held under the theme: “How Can Digital Platforms Contribute to Better Implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement?”
The primary aim of this initiative was to create a platform for dialogue and exchange, enabling Ivorian bloggers to better understand the AfCFTA and effectively relay information to relevant stakeholders.
Ms. Fatoumata FOFANA BOUNDY, Executive Secretary of the AfCFTA-NC, opened the session by thanking attendees for their participation and commitment to disseminating accurate information about the AfCFTA Agreement through digital media. She emphasized the importance of equipping bloggers with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively communicate about the agreement on social platforms, ensuring that stakeholders are well-informed.
Representing the Minister of Trade, Industry, and SME Promotion, Ms. Mariama KONE highlighted the crucial role bloggers play as focal points in spreading accurate and impactful information on the AfCFTA Agreement. She urged all digital content creators to commit to supporting the dissemination of relevant details about the agreement, its challenges, and opportunities at the national level.
Leaders of Ivorian bloggers' associations, including Mr. Foster N'CHO, President of the National Union of Bloggers of Côte d'Ivoire (UNBCI), and Ms. Rita Pascale KWAMINAN, President of the Bloggers Association of Côte d'Ivoire (ABCI), expressed their dedication to supporting the AfCFTA-NC's communication initiatives.
The afterwork featured a series of presentations on the AfCFTA Agreement and its implementation, as well as a panel discussion led by bloggers and entrepreneurs. The session provided participants with valuable insights and fostered collaborations to enhance the use of digital tools for raising awareness about the AfCFTA.