The session will examine how AfCFTA’s tariff reductions on 90% of goods, including tobacco, intersect with tobacco control commitments under the WHO FCTC and its Protocol on Illicit Trade. Together with policymakers, researchers, and health leaders we’ll review new evidence and map practical policy pathways for aligning trade integration with public health goals.

Speakers:

• Patrick Musavuli – Technical Officer, WHO FCTC Secretariat
• Zunda Chisha – Program Director, WHO FCTC Knowledge Hub on Tobacco Taxation
• Adeniran Adedeji – Director of Research, Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA)
• Jacob Kotcho Bongkwaha – Director of the Common Market, Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS)
• Amit Yadav, Deputy Director, Vital Strategies
• Odilia B. Gnassingbe-Essonam – Coordinator, Trade Programs, ACBF
• Betina Edziwa – Head of Special Program, ACBF
• Celine Awuor – Chief Executive Officer; International Institute for Legislative Affairs (ILLA), Kenya
• Rodolphe Bance – Head, Economic and Social Governance Unit, ACBF
• Daouda Adam – Tobacco Control Expert, ACBF

Moderated by Barassou Diawara – Knowledge Management Expert, ACBF