Cameroon Hosts Expert Meeting on Regional Integration in Africa Yaounde, Cameroon – The Government of Cameroon, in collaboration with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the African Development Bank (AfDB), recently hosted an expert meeting to examine regional integration in Africa. Experts from across the continent gathered in Yaounde to deliberate on the progress, challenges, and opportunities for deeper integration within the African Economic Community (AEC). The meeting sought to provide insights into the current state of regional integration and identify key steps to accelerate its realization. During the meeting, participants highlighted the importance of regional integration for economic growth and sustainable development in Africa. They emphasized the need for shared infrastructure, reduced trade barriers, and harmonized policies to create a more competitive and prosperous African market. The meeting also examined the role of regional institutions in promoting integration. Experts discussed the mandates, capacities, and effectiveness of existing organizations, such as the AfDB, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). They called for greater collaboration among these institutions to avoid duplication and maximize impact. The meeting further explored the challenges to regional integration, including political instability, security threats, infrastructure deficits, and trade imbalances. Participants emphasized the need for political will, strong leadership, and a commitment to addressing these obstacles. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to inform policy decisions and actions aimed at accelerating regional integration in Africa. Participants agreed on the following key recommendations: * Enhance political commitment and leadership at the highest levels * Strengthen regional institutions and ensure their coordination * Prioritize infrastructure development and inter-connectivity * Reduce trade barriers and facilitate cross-border investments * Promote peace and security within regions * Address social and economic disparities among member states The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among stakeholders to transform the vision of an integrated Africa into a reality. By working together, African countries can unlock the vast potential of regional integration for the benefit of their citizens.Cameroon has hosted an expert meeting to examine regional integration in Africa. The meeting brought together experts from across the continent to discuss the progress and challenges of regional integration in Africa. The experts discussed a range of issues, including the impact of regional integration on trade, investment, and economic growth. They also discussed the challenges of regional integration, such as the lack of infrastructure, the high cost of doing business across borders, and the political challenges of harmonizing regulations. The meeting was organized by the African Union Commission and the Economic Commission for Africa. It was held in Yaounde, Cameroon, from 19-21 March 2023. The meeting concluded with a number of recommendations, including the need for: * More investment in infrastructure to improve connectivity between African countries. * A reduction in the cost of doing business across borders. * The harmonization of regulations to make it easier for businesses to operate in multiple African countries. * Increased political will to support regional integration initiatives. The recommendations of the meeting will be presented to the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government for consideration.