This paper explores the recent move towards a single continental economic bloc in the likes of the European Community, which spear-headed economic activities and integration in Europe before its final absorption into the European Union’s broader framework in 2009. It exposes the opportunities and equally show-case the possible hurdles that if not carefully handled, will bring this process of economic integration in a promising continent like Africa to a stand-still. Titling it as an allegory was carefully chosen to well situate the points this paper seeks to highlight, after several observations, though with high optimism. This paper evaluates how structural, contextual, and operational dynamics common to many African states would probably condition and influence the impact of this milestone decision of integration on the goals it seeks to achieve, by drawing experiences from current happenings and experiences from other countries and continental economic blocs.

Keywords: AfCFTA, economic integration, development, growth