Speaking of ADF
ADF Coordinator, Ambassador Peter Robleh, provides insight into how the ADF was put together

Coming up with the theme

When the African Heads of State and Government met at the Summit in Lusaka they committed themselves to the launching of the African Union (AU). They gave the responsibility to premier African institutions such as the OAU,  ECA and ADB to examine the challenges involved in the establishment of the AU.

The need to define priorities for regional integration came out of this mandate.

Drawing up the participants’ list

By its very definition, ‘regional integration’ assumes broadened dimensions and departure from traditional political modes, which have been largely state-led and national-focused.

However, in light of globalization, nation States are finding that their interests are better served through the regional context of the rolling back of restrictive measures and tariffs, and allowing people, goods and services to move and flow across borders freely.

No longer just about States

Regional integration is human centered. Therefore, it becomes necessary to involve a wide sector of participants in order that thorough debate on key strategic issues takes place, to creat wider action for human development .

Challenges: selling the concept

Regional integration is a theoretical concept unlike the reality of HIV/AIDS. Regional integration, furthermore, challenges some aspects of national sovereignty . Nation States may therefore be asked to give up some of their sovereignty for the common good. Selling this concept has been a challenge.

There was therefore a need to conduct sensitization of various clusters in order that come to the forum well prepared.

It was also necessary to maintain a truly balanced representation in terms of institution, regions, public, private sector and civil society, in addition to gender considerations and professional disciplines.