Regional Integration

Towards a Systematic Approach to Regional Integration

Most African countries have already recognized the benefits of regional integration and participate in at least one regional arrangement. While past performance has been mixed, there is renewed momentum for a more pragmatic approach to regional integration. In addition, the New Partnership for Africa Development Initiative (NEPAD) led by African leaders, has identified regional integration as one of its priorities to overcome the fragmentation of the continent and to reduce Africa's economic marginalization.

To support this trend, the World Bank has modified its organization by creating a full department to manage its regional integration portfolio. It is also developing strategies to be implemented in the various sub-regions through a number of regional projects and programs, mainly in the trade and infrastructure sectors.

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