POSITON PAPER PRESENTED BY

KWOKWO EBIKILA
(xebi10@yahoo.com, +2348063893270) AT THE 2ND MODEL AFRICAN UNION SUMMIT ON MAY 25TH, AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ACCRA, GHANA COMMITEE: TRADE, CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATIONS TOPIC: PROMOTING TRADE AMONGST YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS BY BREAKING TRADE BARRIERS IN AFRICA DELEGATION: UNITED NATIONS ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR AFRICA

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa is one of the five regional organs of the United Nations Organization established in 1958 by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The Commission has a mandate to 1.promote economic and social development 2.foster intra-regional trade and 3.Promote international cooperation for Africas development.

Looking at the theme of this years Model African Union Summit Boosting Intra-African Trade through Entrepreneurship, we understand that it borders on the mandate areas on which the commissions work programme focuses to achieve. The youth of any nation are its strength and it is important to use this resource effectively so as to achieve growth. The African mentality creates a situation where elders do not allow women and youth to be part of the decision-making process. This year, the summit has provided yet another platform for youths and indeed young women to understand that promoting trade amongst Africans by encouraging youth entrepreneurship is a step in the right direction for African development and also to articulate viable policy responses in this regard.

CHALLENGES In Africa, high tariffs raise the transaction cost of doing business which consequently

results in a low upturn. It also limits the free movement of people, goods, services and capital across borders. The young entrepreneur needs motivation to go beyond borders with his innovative

business idea. The entrepreneur needs profit, competitive pressure, an average production capacity and a good tax benefit amongst others. Presently, the African business environment has failed to sustainably provide these motivations.

WHAT WE PROPOSE That integration and trade liberalization policies be implemented. This would be

reflected in the reduction of taxes and tariffs, elimination of import quotas around the continent. Reduction of subsidies, tax breaks and other forms of government support for

domestic companies. This would encourage healthy competition and further enhance quality of services provided. That a comprehensive Youth Enterprise promotion programme be developed

harmonised, adopted and implemented by member states. That this Youth Enterprise promotion programmes be protected from being politicized

and hijacked to the detriment of the youths. BENEFITS The idea behind free trade is basically to encourage integration. This purpose would be

achieved as intra-African trade would be promoted. Healthy competition which is the hallmark of the free market system would be

enhanced. We stand to gain more because where there is competition, you also find innovation. Social and economic compromise for Africas development would be attained. Integration is necessary to overcome the limitations of Africas fragmented economies

as it gives young entrepreneurs the freedom to explore, establish, expand and be a success wherever they are; it would also give the continent a greater voice in the management of economic processes at the international stage. With integration, African economies would be stronger and much more stable

It is also pertinent to note that despite the emphasis placed on integration by African leaders and long standing commitments, the process has been slow and therefore remains a major challenge for intraAfrican trade. It is high time African States unite and have a viable mechanism capable of accelerating integration amongst member states. The Economic Community of West African states (ECOWAS) has achieved the desired goals of regional integration through free movement of people and goods; free trade and a common passport. This progress must be studied and simulated around the continent.

It is also important to note that the commission plays a very vital role in helping to build consensus around key African developmental issues; also in articulating common African perspectives and positions. We want to assure all delegates that the commissions role in boosting trade in Africa by encouraging entrepreneurship would continue to be consistent with those of the African Union. While lauding the efforts of the Union at promoting African integration, we pledge to continually lend our support and complement the efforts of member nations and other institutions driving the integration agenda. Thank You and God Bless.