ABSTRACT
The idea of pan-Africanism fell out of fashion amidst post-independence disillusionment as African unity projects were torn asunder by the Cold War and realpolitik. The creation of new Partnership for Africa’s Development allowed for the launch of a dialogue in which the voice of Africa was heard and recognised. Africa made considerable progress on its continental integration at the summit held in Niamey at the end of 2017. The Continental Free Trade Area holds great potential and highlights the ideology behind Africa’s propositions for a gradual integration into the forces of globalisation. While the European Union is looking, for example, to deepen its centralised governing structure, Africa’s integration model is focused on improving regional economic integration without threatening the sovereignty of its states. This approach matches some emerging trends in globalisation in which local identities and global networks are strengthened at the same time.
