IGAD’s Role in Economic Integration

This chapter delves into IGAD's core mission of enhancing regional economic integration in the Horn of Africa. It explores the vision of transformation by creating interconnected economic activities to strengthen social cohesion. However, existing templates for regional economic cooperation have not fully realized these transformations. Two decades later, IGAD still faces challenges in achieving regional economic integration, resulting in slow growth and limited intra-state trade. The chapter applies neorealist theory to examine the obstacles IGAD encounters in harmonizing policies and promoting the Free Trade Area and Free Movement of Persons. Emphasizing infrastructural development's importance for regional interconnectivity, the chapter highlights the potential for progress in the region.