Regional integration drives inclusive growth in Africa, according to experts

Abstract

Regional integration is still the driver of inclusive growth in Africa. This was the opinion of the panellists during the session on “Leveraging regional integration for inclusive and sustainable growth in Africa”. The low level of intra-regional trade, shortage of good quality infrastructure and lack of qualified workers are among the obstacles cited by the panelists to explain the difficulties that the continent is experiencing in accelerating integration. Africa has a huge market for all kinds of products. However, the panelists regretted the fact that the continent is still having difficulty in using that opportunity to consolidate its growth for the benefit of its populations. The successful achievement of monetary and customs union in the West African currency area was also praised by the panelists. The conference brings together heads of State and experts in business and development from all over the world. They are discussing “Regional Integration in Africa”, and its role in strengthening the economic growth and well-being of the continent’s populations.