Strengthening the Economic Community of Great Lakes of Africa: A Path to Sustainable Development and Peace

A. Context

The Economic Community of Great Lakes of Africa can be revived between the founding members, Burundi, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and then extended to Tanzania and Uganda based on the established trades.

This would create a solid sub-regional economic bloc, promoting trade, investment, and economic cooperation among the member countries. The revitalization of the Economic Community of Great Lakes of Africa would also help to improve strategic infrastructure, promote sustainable development, and address common challenges such as poverty, conflict resolution, and instability in the region.

By working toward peace building, these countries can harness the potential of their natural resources, promote regional integration, and improve their citizens' living standards. The Economic Community of Great Lakes of Africa has the potential to become a key player in Africa's economic development and contribute to peace and stability in the region.

With renewed commitment and cooperation, the Economic Community of the Great Lakes of Africa can once again become a driving force for economic growth and development in the Great Lakes region.

B. Historic

This institution was created on September 20, 1976, to promote the socioeconomic development of the existing resources and to ensure the peace and cooperation of the population in the region.

Since 1977, four significant institutions such as the Great Lakes States Development Bank (BDGL) in 1977, the Great Lakes Energy (EGL) in 1980, the Agronomic Zootechnical Research Institute (IRAZ) in 1979, and the International Company of Electricity of the Great Lakes (SINELAC) in 1983, have been established to guarantee the implementation of a long-term development plan.

Today, nearly five decades later, the region is experiencing another phase of disintegration, which started in 1996 after the wars in Rwanda and Burundi and the collapse of the Mobutu regime in the current Democratic Republic of Congo. It's time to look inward, upgrade the CPGL agreement to re-integrate within the REC spirit and open a new chapter for the sub-region.

Key stakeholders from the member countries should come together to revive the Economic Community of the Great Lakes of Africa and re-establish these institutions to promote economic growth, sustainable development, and regional cooperation. By working together, these countries can harness the potential of their resources and create a more prosperous and peaceful future for the region. Learning from past mistakes and building upon the foundation to ensure long-term success and stability is essential. The time is now to reignite the spirit of cooperation and unity within the Great Lakes region and strive towards a brighter future for all its inhabitants.

C. Proposal

Reviving the dynamic within the Economic Community of the Great Lakes of Africa and opening a new chapter for sub-regional development and cooperation involves several strategic steps. Here's an actionable plan that focuses on fostering economic growth, ensuring stability, and enhancing cooperation among member states:

1. Strengthen Political Stability and Security

- Conflict Resolution Initiatives: Establish a conflict resolution mechanism to address existing disputes and prevent future conflicts. This could involve mediation and regional peacekeeping missions.

- Security Collaboration: Enhance cross-border cooperation to combat armed groups and secure the region. Implement intelligence-sharing systems and joint military exercises.

2. Economic Integration and Trade Facilitation

- Trade Agreements: Negotiate and implement trade agreements to reduce tariffs and remove non-tariff barriers, enhancing intra-regional trade.

- Infrastructure Development: Invest in cross-border infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and energy projects, to facilitate trade and movement of people.

- Digital Integration: Promote digital economy through regional broadband networks and digital services to support trade and entrepreneurship.

3. Environmental Protection and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources (Amendment of IRAZ)

- Joint Environmental Policies: Develop and enforce regional policies on natural resource management to prevent over-exploitation and environmental degradation.

- Sustainable Agriculture: Promote sustainable agricultural practices and technology transfer to increase productivity and food security.

- Renewable Energy Projects: Invest in and promote renewable energy projects to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change impacts.

4. Social Development and Human Capital

- Education and Training Programs: Enhance regional education systems and vocational training to improve skills and employability of the workforce.

- Health Initiatives: Implement collaborative health programs to address communicable diseases, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure access to quality healthcare services.

5. Institutional Strengthening and Good Governance

Strengthen Regional Institutions: Enhance the Economic Community of Great Lakes of Africa's institutional framework and decision-making processes to ensure its effectiveness.

- Good Governance Practices: Promote transparency, accountability, and rule of law among member states to improve governance and attract investment.

6. Financial Integration and Investment (Amendment of BDGL)

- Regional Investment Framework: Create a conducive environment for investment, including legal and regulatory reforms to protect assets.

- Financial Support Mechanisms: Establish regional financial support mechanisms like development banks to finance critical projects and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

7. Partnership and International Support

- Engage International Partners: Seek support from international organizations and development partners for technical and financial assistance in implementing regional projects.

- Diaspora Engagement: Leverage the diaspora for investment, skills transfer, and as ambassadors for regional development.

Implementation and Monitoring

- Action Plan & Timelines: Responsibilities and milestones for each initiative.

- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to track progress, assess impact, and make necessary adjustments.

Summary

Reviving the Economic Community of the Great Lakes of Africa requires a multifaceted approach that addresses political, economic, environmental, and social challenges. With concerted efforts and cooperation among member states and support from international partners, the region can achieve sustainable development, peace, and prosperity.