Date of Award
June 2017
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
African American Studies
Advisor(s)
S. N. Sangmpam
Keywords
East Africa, Economic, Economic Integration, Ethiopia, Ethiopia and Kenya, Integration
Subject Categories
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Abstract
Abstract
This study answers the question of which of the four economic integration areas, that is, trade, security, roadways, and energy, can help both Ethiopia and Kenya to speed up their integration more effectively. It hypothesizes that trade and security accelerate integration more than roadways and energy. The results of this study support this hypothesis. However, empirical evidence about the road that connects Ethiopia and Kenya modify somewhat the hypothesis by revealing that roads have contributed more than expected, to the integration of the two countries.
Even though the volume of trade is quite small and there are many more obstacles to trade, there is progress in trade between Ethiopia and Kenya. The energy sector has many challenges, and the findings show that energy production in Ethiopia is not very conducive to integration. Security has a far-reaching impact on economic integration. It appears to be the number one concern for both Ethiopia and Kenya since the Horn of Africa is synonymous with war, violence, and conflict. Concerns about security have helped the two countries make some progress in their integration efforts, despite the recent spike of protests and brutal repression by governments. Overall, there is a bright prospect for integration in East Africa and the realization of African renaissance in the years to come.
The empirical part of this study was conducted in the summer of 2016 in Addis Ababa. Data for the research were obtained from interviews, archives, and document analysis. Ten informants were interviewed and selected on the basis of snowball sampling. Secondary sources were also used.
The study is among the first to assess integration areas in both countries that can lead them to quick integration. It helps organizations such as IGAD, COMESA or EAC to revise or reassess their policies and their organizational strengths and weaknesses for the successful accomplishment of their goal of integration.
Access
Open Access
Recommended Citation
Alemneh, Dawit Ayalew, "Economic Integration in East Africa: The Case of Ethiopia and Kenya" (2017). Theses - ALL. 169.
https://surface.syr.edu/thesis/169
