Wamkele Mene is a distinguished figure in international trade and diplomacy, currently serving as the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. He made history in February 2020 by becoming the first Secretary General of the AfCFTA Secretariat.

Prior to his current role, Wamkele Mene held significant positions that underscore his expertise and leadership in global trade. He served as South Africa’s Head of Mission to the World Trade Organization (WTO), where he represented the country’s interests and chaired the Committee on International Trade in Financial Services.

His tenure included pivotal roles such as Chief Director for Africa Economic Relations in South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry, where he played a crucial role as South Africa’s lead negotiator in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) negotiations.

Wamkele Mene’s educational background is equally impressive and diverse. He was born and raised in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape Province, and attended Marymount High School before completing his secondary education at Trinity High School.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Law from Rhodes University, followed by an MA in International Studies and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental & African Studies (SOAS). Additionally, he holds an LL.M in Banking Law and Financial Regulation from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), further enhancing his qualifications in international economic law and policy.

Throughout his career, Wamkele Mene has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing Africa’s economic integration and global trade relations.

His leadership at the AfCFTA Secretariat continues to drive initiatives aimed at enhancing intra-African trade, promoting economic development, and strengthening Africa’s position in the global marketplace.

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