Lomé: Togolese and pan-African entrepreneur, Gervais Koffi Djondo, is recognized as a role model for economic integration in Africa, exemplifying how such integration is both feasible and beneficial. Since the establishment of the African Union (AU) on July 9, 2002, economic integration has been a primary goal on the continent. Entrepreneurs like Djondo have demonstrated the potential of this mission by integrating economies across Africa.
According to Global Voices, Djondo co-founded the pan-African banking conglomerate, Ecobank, in 1985 with Adeyemi Lawson. This institution now operates in over 30 African nations. Djondo’s vision extended beyond the financial needs of Togo and aimed at serving the entire continent. Despite rejections from French banks, Citibank assisted in the establishment of Ecobank, which was headquartered in Lomé due to favorable tax conditions.
Following the collapse of Air Afrique in 2001, Djondo launched Asky Airlines on January 15, 2010, fulfilling requests from African leaders to create a pan-African airline. Djondo’s efforts are a testament to his commitment to African integration, as explained in an interview with Agence Ecofin during his book release in July 2019. He emphasized the need for Africa to unite to avoid repeating colonial trade patterns.
Djondo’s initiatives have inspired young entrepreneurs across Africa. Adamas Koudou, co-founder of an African herbal teas brand, regards Djondo as an iconic figure whose contributions to the continent’s entrepreneurial sphere and integration are significant. Djondo’s work has facilitated trade and investment throughout Africa, marking progress in regional integration and reflecting a commitment to African unity.
Challenges remain for economic integration in Africa, primarily due to calls for national sovereignty and protectionist policies. These policies create trade barriers and hinder the free movement of people, goods, and services. While organizations like SADC, ECOWAS, ECCAS, and COMESA promote cross-border trade, political tensions and border disputes continue to impede market integration, despite Africa’s growth potential.