CML4629S  Law and Regional Integration in Africa

9 NQF credits at NQF level 8

Conveners: Dr G Mukundi and Dr V Amadi

Course entry requirements: None

Co-requisites: None

Course outline: This course provides a forum for students to study the ways in which the law has been utilised to shape and direct regional integration processes in Africa. The course starts with a discussion of theories of regional integration, followed by an overview of the historical trajectory of integration on the continent, with a focus on development integration. Its comparative dimension is directed at identifying and analysing strengths, weaknesses and challenges reflected in various regional efforts at integration on the continent, including the AU, SADC, EAC, ECOWAS, AMU, the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) as well as the proposed African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Furthermore, the role of regional institutions such as regional courts is discussed, along with relevant cases. Current regional integration issues worldwide constitute a vital context for class discussions. The course is delivered through a series of weekly seminars, with occasional guest lectures. Students’ participation is essential and various avenues created for this purpose include group discussions, in-class review of literature, student presentations and simulation of a multilateral negotiation session. Students are expected to develop their presentations into a research paper under the supervision of the course conveners.

DP requirements: None

Assessment: Coursework 20%; final research paper 80%