ADF III Defining priorities for regional integration narrative programme

Abstract

The imperative of accelerated regional economic integration is reflected in African nations' move towards the formation of the African Union (AU) and in leading initiatives for economic development such as the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). A carefully phased and prioritized process could enable these institutions and structures to be set up incrementally and to maximum effect. ADF III takes place in the middle of the period of transition to the AU. The Constitutive Act of the AU invites parliamentarians, CSOs and others to take on a pivotal role in the architecture of the Union. Africa's major development initiatives, such as the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), include regional cooperation and integration as a central component. Economic integration is vital if Africa is to optimize the use of its resources and attract inward investment. ADF III is a tremendous opportunity for these and other stakeholders, alongside experts, to provide inputs into Africa's strategies for economic development, with a special focus on regional issues.