Development, cooperation and integration in the SADC region

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In 1980, the Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC) was established with the major objectives of decreasing economic dependence on the apartheid regime and fostering regional development. The strategy adopted for meeting these objectives was regional development and cooperation. In 1992, SADCC was reborn as the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The member states decided the time had come to move the region toward the creation of one regional market. Since market integration has failed miserably on the African continent, this article argues that a different approach should be adopted — regional integration. Regional integration is defined as a process that allows member states to have access to each other’s markets on a voluntary basis and at various degrees. Economic, political, social and cultural benefits are realised from this interaction. Since regional development and cooperation remains a central component of the SADC strategy, this article proposes a way forward that would enhance regional development, cooperation and integration. This includes (1) the need for the SADC member states to make a serious political commitment to regional development, cooperation and integration; (2) the creation of an environment of political and economic stability; and (3) enhanced national and regional development. Keywords : SADC, regional integration, regional cooperation, regional development , Southern Africa