The challenges and constraints of regional co-operation and integration: the African Union

Abstract

This research work is an evaluation and assessment of 'the challenges of the African Union in its drive towards the integration of Africa. Clearly, yawning economic, political and social gaps exists at the sub-regional and continental levels. Similarly, studies on the African Union and on integration by other authors and scholars have been reviewed. Clearly, the lack of political will, coupled with the absence of supranati<fnal bodies with cohesive powers has inhibited integration in Africa. This research work has extensively assessed the constraints ofthe AU and has suggested ways of overcoming them as well as assessing the benefits of integration to Africa.