Role of Cross-Border Energy, Transport, and ICT Infrastructure on Economic Integration among West African States

Abstract

Background: Cross-border infrastructure is one of the major constraints on regional economic integration in West Africa. This study focuses on energy, transport, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure in the 15 member countries of the ECOWAS region and assesses their potential to promote regional economic integration. Methods: Data on the physical development of various types of infrastructure were derived from the African Infrastructure Development Index (AIDI) for the 2020–2025 period. The secondary data used in the study were largely drawn from the African Development Bank and other relevant studies. The methodology used in the study is descriptive and comparative. Results: The study established that there are significant disparities in the levels of development of various types of infrastructure across the ECOWAS region. While ICT infrastructure is growing rapidly, the development of energy infrastructure, particularly electricity infrastructure, remains slow in most countries. There is a positive correlation between infrastructure quality and integration outcomes; however, institutional factors are preventing goods and services from moving smoothly across borders, thereby limiting the ability of physical connectivity to translate into trade benefits. Conclusion: Thus, there is a need for focused investment and coherent policies in energy, transport, and ICT infrastructure to achieve significant progress in regional integration within ECOWAS.