The Recurrent Barriers to Effective Economic Integration in IGAD and the Way Forward

Abstract

Regional integration is central for solving development challenges that cannot be resolved at the national level. This research examines the recurrent blockades to regional integration in IGAD and their outcomes on the viability of the re-revitalized IGAD and suggests the way forward for making the bloc viable and vigorous. Qualitative design was employed. Policy and research experts, policy advisors, officers, directors and heads, universities instructors were participated. It is revealed that let alone sustained peace and integration, it has flunked to achieve the very objective of addressing common problem of drought and desertification for the last three decades. For this, several recurrent obstacles identified which militate against a viable regional integration in the IGAD Region among which include unrelenting lack of political will and commitment in terms of unresponsive to multi-level participation of private and civil society, unwilling to cede power to the sub-region and to incorporate regionally adopted policies into national programs; heavy economic dependency, and failing to honor financial contribution;  multiple and overlapping membership that cause complications, policy incoherence and divided loyalty; poor level of communication and infrastructure; state-centric approach, intra- and inter-state unabated conflicts, mistrust and suspicion among the Member states, and absence of ‘big brother and external influence. Evidence indicate that these major barricades will continue to bloc IGAD from effectuating the objectives envisaged in the new 2023 IGAD Treaty unless immediate remedial measures are taken.