Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Regional economic cooperation in the Horn of Africa

Chatham House in London issued a report in November titled “Hostage to Conflict: Prospects for Building Regional Economic Cooperation in the Horn of Africa” by Sally Healy. It focuses on the eight members of the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD).

The report emphasizes there are strong political and structural obstacles to regional economic integration.

On the other hand, informal trade relations offer the opportunity for integration. Healy urges that more attention be given to the development of transport corridors to sea ports, the management of shared water resources, common management of pastoral rangelands, and improved energy security.

She recommends more support for IGAD and less attention to a state-centric approach to regional integration.