Comparative Study of Southern Africa Development Commission (sadc) and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Conflict Management: The Case of Southern and Western Africa Sub-Regions

Abstract

The persistent conflicts in different parts of Africa have continued to negatively affect the progress of the region in many of its sectors. This research comparatively delves into their effectiveness and approaches to addressing conflicts in their respective regions. Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are regional economic communities established to promote economic integration, peace, and stability within Southern and West Africa, respectively. A qualitative method of study is adopted for this work. Secondary sources were obtained from books. Journals, conference proceedings, newspapers, magazines, and internet sources. Data collected was analysed through descriptive and content analysis. The structural-functional theory is adopted as the underpinning theory of analysis. The findings reveal that ECOWAS and SADC have played vital roles in conflict management in Africa. It is concluded that they have applied different strategies in achieving their objectives set for conflict management. The study recommended that cooperation among regional organisations will improve the success of conflict management in Africa. The Policy Implication of this work is that it will help policymakers to redesign their policies on matters of conflict. It is therefore suggested that further studies should focus on the cooperation of world organizations in conflict management.