Repose A Series by ProPertArt Trust
August 11, 2021
Kap Kirwok addresses the historical fragmentation of the African continent, a consequence of the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885. This partitioning led to the creation of numerous small, often landlocked states, which struggle to integrate into global production systems, value chains, and logistics networks. As a result, these states face significant challenges in achieving economic viability and development.
To address these issues, the African continent has been pursuing reintegration through various economic cooperation and integration arrangements. This effort includes the formation of numerous Regional Economic Communities (RECs), which aim to enhance economic collaboration and integration among African countries. However, the proliferation of these communities has sometimes led to overlapping and redundancy, potentially impeding their effectiveness.
The African Union (AU) officially recognizes eight RECs, including:
East African Community (EAC)
Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
These RECs are designed to counteract the artificial borders imposed during the colonial era, facilitating the free movement of people, capital, labor, and services. By doing so, they aim to create larger, more economically viable blocs that can better integrate into the global economy, thereby enhancing intra-African trade and development.
Kap also suggests a suspicion that some RECs may have been influenced or sponsored by external detractors, further complicating the integration process. Despite these challenges, the overarching goal remains to dismantle the colonial legacy of division and foster a more united and economically interconnected African continent.
