Rationalization and harmonization of ECA-sponsored institution(phase II)

Abstract

This study examines the financial and operational implications of merging ECA-sponsored institutions in response to Resolution 754(xxviii) of the ECA Conference of Ministers (1993). It evaluates the mergers of three institutional groups: remote sensing and cartography (RECTAS, CRTO, AOCRS), science and technology development (ARCT, ARCEDEM, ARSO, AIHTTR, ARIPO, ARCSE), and economic and social development training (IDEP, ACARTSOD). Key findings reveal that most mergers lead to annual savings (15% for ARCT group, 11% for IDEP group), while the RECTAS merger results in a slight cost increase (9%) due to salary harmonization. The report highlights operational benefits, such as improved coordination and enhanced institutional impact, and recommends structural reforms like streamlined governance and income-generating activities. It stresses that long-term qualitative gains in efficiency and regional impact outweigh short-term financial adjustments, urging alignment with regional development priorities and diversification of funding sources.