Paper short abstract:

My research explains how African countries can improve the current low level of intra-regional trade relation and possibly reduce intra-regional conflict and adopt cohesive frameworks on policy issues.

Paper long abstract:

A focus on the strength of Regional Integration in other continents of the world shows the need for Africa to reflect on the peculiar Regional Integration challenges it is facing and seek lasting solutions to them. The African Union (AU) is laden with this challenge but it is important to emphasize that member countries should play their part in ensuring Regional Integration on the continent. To a very large extent, the history of African societies is characterized by instability, crisis and conflict since nominal flag independence from European colonial overlords dating back nearly five decades, with this situation still prevalent in most African countries. To the extent that there is no intra-regional co-operation or peace, it would be rather preposterous to expect co-operation across territorial boundaries by way of integration.

This paper aims at highlighting the causes of trade incompatibilities and intra-regional conflicts in Africa and the challenges they pose to sustainable Regional Integration in Africa. It also looks at the responsibility of the state in addressing these challenges and how they can be effectively tackled to ensure the development of the entire region.