Understanding the Role of Aid for Trade in Enhancing Corridor Development and Regional Integration in West Africa: Lessons and Policy Directions

Abstract

This paper analyzes how Aid for Trade (AfT) is contributing to improve corridor development, regional integration, and logistics services in Africa. This research argues that in contrast to other studies showing AfT as having less positive impact on intra-regional trade in Africa, particularly in Africa, an important area where AfT is having a positive impact is in the development of transport (road) infrastructure interconnectivity. More importantly, building road networks and corridors to ease means of exchange of goods by land remains an important issue for landlocked nations and a cost-effective solution to least developed countries (LDCs) which constitute a large share of Africa.