Probing Regional Integration in the Horn of Africa: The case of Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)

Abstract

Abstract In the Horn of Africa, it is often presumed that the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) provides an institutional framework for regional integration. IGAD was established in 1986 and its member states include, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda. However, the organisation continues to have many set-backs in its quest for an integrated Horn of Africa. Therefore, this study probed the challenges of regional integration in the Horn of Africa. The study closely examined the regional integration efforts of IGAD and its role and aggregate performance in the sub-region’s search for alternative strategies for sustainable socio- economic development and self-reliance through regional integration. The aim of the study was to investigate mechanisms that might contribute towards the socio-economic growth of IGAD member states. This study adopted a qualitative research approach in the collection of data. The research established the following: That member states of IGAD are not trusting each other and most of them compete over who is more powerful than the other. This competition continues to worsen the already slow integration process. Terrorism in this part of the world continues to hamper progress. In most instances, this phenomenon is tackled harshly, thus leading to more terroristic activities. Participants are of the opinion that this scourge needs a counter ideological stance where people can be educated about