Nairobi, Kenya: When regional integration meets the African Union agenda
On July 16, 2023, the city of Nairobi is the scene of the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, bringing together African leaders to discuss the state of continental integration in Africa. This meeting, which promises to be important, will see the participation of the presidents of the various Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Regional Mechanisms (RMs), who will share their perspectives on regional and continental integration.
The event will begin with an official opening marked by the anthem of the African Union (AU). High-level personalities, including the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, the President of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto, and the United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, will deliver keynote speeches. ‘opening. The President of the Union of the Comoros, Azali Assoumani, as current Chairman of the AU, will also deliver an opening speech.
One of the key items on the agenda is the state of continental integration in Africa. Moussa Faki Mahamat will present a detailed report on the progress made so far as well as the remaining challenges. Mahamadou Issoufou, the AU Champion for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), will also report on the latest developments regarding its implementation, essential for Africa’s economic integration.
The Presidents of the various RECs will take the floor to share their perspectives on regional integration in their respective regions. Leaders such as Mahamat Idriss Deby from Chad, Hakainde Hichilema from Zambia, Évariste Ndayishimiye from Burundi, Ali Bongo Ondimba from Gabon, Bola Ahmed Tinubu from Nigeria, Ismail Omar Guelleh from Djibouti and Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo from the Democratic Republic of Congo will present their views.
The meeting will also address the issue of division of labor between Member States, RECs/RMs and the AU. A report on the division of labor will be presented, highlighting the progress made so far and the steps taken to improve coordination and cooperation between the different entities.
Another major focus of the meeting will be showcasing the achievements of the AU and RECs/RECs in integration. Leaders will present case studies of successful initiatives, highlighting best practices and lessons learned.
Environment, climate change and the blue economy in Africa will also figure prominently in the discussions. Leaders will discuss challenges and opportunities related to these areas and share initiatives to promote sustainable and resilient development.
Finally, the meeting will address the issue of the Ukraine-Russia peacekeeping mission. Leaders will share recent developments regarding this peacekeeping mission and underscore the importance of stability in the region.
This mid-year coordination meeting in Nairobi is an opportunity for African leaders to discuss the state of regional and continental integration in Africa, as well as highlight successes and challenges