African Wars in the 21st Century

December 2023

Economic and Security Determinants for a Stable Continent

This 2023 workshop report examines the complex relationship between Africa’s informal economies, regional integration, and security frameworks. It highlights how indigenous economic practices, cross-border informal trade, and innovative financial tools can act as stabilizing forces — if leveraged alongside formal governance structures. Participants explored the role of regional economic communities (RECs), ad-hoc initiatives, and multinational actors in shaping Africa’s security future. The report proposes ways to strengthen collaboration, accountability, and local ownership, recognizing that human security must be rooted in local realities.

➡️ Key themes: Informal economies, regionalization, ad-hoc security initiatives, governance, and private sector responsibility.