NEW REGIONALISM IN AFRICA: AFCFTA AND ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

The emergence of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) marks a transformative phase in Africa’s quest for regional integration and collective economic diplomacy. Despite decades of fragmented markets and weak intra-African trade, AfCFTA offers an unprecedented opportunity to redefine Africa’s position in the global economy. However, existing literature often overlooks the interplay between economic diplomacy, regional power asymmetries, and institutional capacity in realizing its goals. This study examines how new regionalism, anchored in neoliberal institutionalism and transformational theory, reshapes economic cooperation in Sub-Saharan Africa. It identifies gaps in policy coherence, infrastructure, and governance that hinder effective implementation. The findings reveal that AfCFTA can advance inclusive development only through robust diplomatic coordination, digital integration, and shared economic governance. The study concludes by proposing strategic pathways for sustainable regionalism rooted in economic pragmatism, collective sovereignty, and equitable participation.