Algeria’s role in economic integration and sustainable  development through the New Partnership  for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) with Agenda 2063

Prepared by the researche  

•  Dh.Madani  Zakaria . University Center of El-Bayadh
•  Dh.Madani  Benchohra . Ibn Khaldun University Tiaret

Democratic Arabic Center

Journal of Afro-Asian Studies : Twenty-fifth Issue – May 2025

A Periodical International Journal published by the “Democratic Arab Center” Germany – Berlin

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Abstract

Algeria, a key player in Africa, is actively engaged in continental initiatives such as NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) and Agenda 2063, which aim to strengthen economic integration, regional cooperation, and sustainable development. Through its economic diplomacy and political influence, Algeria contributes to transnational infrastructure projects, promotes peace, and ensures stability in Africa. However, internal challenges, including dependency on hydrocarbons and the need for economic diversification, limit its full potential. To successfully in  tegrate into the global economy and support the objectives of Agenda 2063, Algeria must modernize its non-oil sectors, attract foreign investment, and implement structural reforms. Its geopolitical role in Africa, strengthened by its commitment to these initiatives, makes it a key partner in achieving the continent’s aspirations.

Introduction

Algeria, as one of the major players on the African continent, holds a strategic position in the implementation of pan-African initiatives such as the NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) and Agenda 2063. These programs, designed to transform Africa into an integrated and sustainable economic growth hub, aim to enhance the continent’s autonomy, promote regional cooperation, and accelerate socio-economic development. Algeria, with its political influence and economic resources, has actively engaged in these initiatives, contributing notably to transnational infrastructure projects, strengthening intra-African trade, and promoting peace and stability across the continent.

However, looking towards the horizon of Agenda 2063, Algeria faces significant challenges that could influence its ability to achieve these objectives. One of the main obstacles is the diversification of its economy, which remains heavily dependent on hydrocarbons. To fully play its role in African and global economic integration, Algeria must modernize its non-oil sectors such as agriculture, industry, and technology, while attracting foreign investment through targeted economic diplomacy. Furthermore, sustainable development remains a crucial issue, requiring structural reforms to balance economic growth, the preservation of natural resources, and social inclusion.

At the same time, Algeria is strengthening its geopolitical influence in Africa through its involvement in initiatives like NEPAD and Agenda 2063. As an influential member of the African Union, it actively participates in discussions on security, peace, and development, while consolidating its bilateral relations with other African countries. These efforts position Algeria as a key player in realizing the aspirations of Agenda 2063, which aims to make Africa a united, prosperous, and influential continent on the global stage.

In conclusion, through its commitment to NEPAD and Agenda 2063, Algeria plays an essential role in promoting regional integration and sustainable development in Africa. However, to maximize its impact, it must address internal challenges, particularly economic diversification and the modernization of its productive structures. Its success will depend on its ability to balance internal reforms and continental leadership while adapting to the changes of a globalized world.

2. Study problem

Recently, in an ever-changing global context marked by significant geopolitical and economic changes, Algeria repositioned its economic strategy, emphasizing more targeted economic diplomacy to strengthen its regional and international presence. However, the question arises as to what extent this strategy actually contributes to Algeria’s integration into the global economy while promoting sustainable development and Africa’s geopolitical influence through initiatives such as NEPAD and Agenda 2063.

3. Hypothesis
4. Hypothesis 1: Algeria’s economic strategy, focused on regional integration and the expansion of international partnerships, strengthens its geopolitical position and promotes the achievement of NEPAD and Agenda 2063 objectives, thereby contributing to the sustainable economic development of the country and Africa.
5. Hypothesis 2: Although Algeria has strengthened its geo-economic presence, internal structural challenges (including the diversification of its economy and the reduction of its dependence on hydrocarbons) limit the effectiveness of its economic diplomacy and hamper the positive impact of regional and continental initiatives on its long-term economic development.
6. Research Objective

The objective of this research is to analyze the role of Algeria’s economic diplomacy in the context of regional and continental initiatives, such as NEPAD and Agenda 2063, and to assess the impact of this strategy on the country’s sustainable economic development. This study also aims to identify the internal and external factors that influence Algeria’s ability to achieve its economic objectives through these programs and to understand the challenges it faces in implementing these policies.

5.Strengthening Algeria’s Economic Diplomacy: Opportunities and Challenges in Expanding Market Integration in Africa

However, the reports revealed an obvious dysfunction in the performance indicators of intra-African trad[1]e    , putting Africa in a difficult position. Algeria’s trade within the continent was no exception to this, with figures showing a real weakness in trade, which did not exceed 1% of Algeria’s total foreign trade volume. The main reasons for this low rate are related to the low level of industrialization, the lack of economic diversification, an excessive dependence on oil and gas revenues, as well as, the dependence of the Algerian economy on its traditional trading partners, and the limited integration of its economy into the African trading and financial system. However, Algeria’s commitment to this free trade space is important to encourage national institutions and companies to adopt strategies to penetrate the African market, especially in sectors such as food products, building materials, and household appliances industries. This could have positive economic effects in the short and medium term, increasing the volume of trade, especially with the existence of several border crossing points with the Sahel countries, thus facilitating access to the markets of these countries and thus strengthening integration in the heart of Africa.

It emerges from these results that Algeria’s economic diplomacy is still in its early stages, in view of the modest results obtained at this level, in comparison with the successes achieved within the framework of classical diplomacy, in particular thanks to the roles played by Algeria since its independence,  succeeding in resolving many conflicts in Africa through mediation mechanisms, good offices, etc. Algeria has succeeded to a large extent in presenting itself as a country guarantor of peace in Africa and in the world, while the promotion of its economic diplomacy has not been as successful despite the economic potentialities at its disposal. It is more than ever called upon to exploit these potentialities and to restructure its diplomatic activity in order to meet the requirements of activation of this new tool.

Based on these results, several recommendations can be made to enable Algerian economic diplomacy to overcome the challenges and obstacles that prevent it from succeeding in achieving its objectives:

• Strengthen the national economy by diversifying sources of production, creating wealth, and strengthening production in other economic sectors (agriculture, industry) away from the hydrocarbon sector. This constitutes an essential lever for building the economic capacities of the state, which will have repercussions on the effectiveness of economic diplomacy to make it an effective instrument in Algeria’s new orientations.
• Algeria’s possession of significant oil and gas reserves allows it to use the energy diplomacy map as a complement to its economic diplomacy, transferring the financial resources obtained from these revenues to investment in internal production and manufacturing to achieve the desired economic take-off.
• Investment in young human capital, combined with Algeria’s latent economic potential, is a major asset for the creation of national wealth and support for the economy’s capacities, particularly through the role of small and medium-sized enterprises and the knowledge economy as engines of growth.
• The strengthening of Algeria’s economic presence abroad depends on three essential points: the first consists of the training of specialized personnel at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, mainly responsible for promoting the country’s economic diplomacy abroad. The second concerns the opening of offices dedicated to this type of diplomacy within embassies and representations abroad. Finally, the third point concerns the need to strengthen and forge economic relations at the bilateral and multilateral levels, in particular with regional economic groups.
• Algeria’s commitment to creating partnerships for regional integration with its African neighbors through a series of development projects that it has developed within the framework of the NEPAD Initiative is a key element of its integration into the African economy. However, its success at this level depends on its ability to invest in these projects and to ensure their sustainability and security in the face of the various threats that may hinder these development projects.
• Algeria’s adoption of economic aid diplomacy towards Africa is an important strategy to support poor and poor countries in lifting themselves out of poverty, accelerating their development, and strengthening the principle of African solidarity. The most important element for Algeria remains the inclusion of a dimension of mutual interest through these cooperation instruments, which establishes strategic relations with beneficiary countries within the framework of trade and economic agreements, allowing Algeria to diversify its partners on the continent.
• The effectiveness of Algeria’s economic opening to its African environment remains dependent on its ability to be competitive in African markets that strengthens its presence through a banking and financial network throughout the continent, offering support and support to Algerian investors while supporting this by increasing air routes connecting Algeria to the various African capitals to ensure transport and freight flows.

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development is one of Algeria’s main diplomatic initiatives, crowned by a common interest between Algeria and several African countries. Through this initiative, as one of the founding countries, Algeria sought to propose its vision for Africa’s development and to break out of the vicious circle of poverty and wars, addressing all the political, economic, social, and development challenges facing the continent. This partnership is a multisectoral approach to address these issues and set Africa on a path of growth and sustainable development at the beginning of the new millennium. In analyzing these priorities, it appears that the main foundation of the NEPAD Initiative, according to the analyses of many experts in African affairs, lies in the economic and development aspect, working towards the integration of the continent into the global economy and ending processes of marginalization, while creating the necessary conditions to meet these commitments[2]  . This partnership thus becomes a global and integrated plan that combines the political and economic dimensions.

The NEPAD Initiative provided an “adequate framework” for the return of Algerian diplomacy to the African scene, particularly in the Sahel region, after a period of isolation (the security crisis) that it had gone through. The challenge of foreign policy was to promote the Algerian approach, with an emphasis on the economic and development dimension, which marks a turning point in the direction of foreign diplomacy, in particular by relying on economic diplomacy, which has clearly manifested itself at this level. This chapter will attempt to diagnose the economic role of Algerian diplomacy within the framework of the NEPAD partnership through three sections. The first section introduces the project of this partnership as a new vision for the development of the continent, while the second section analyses the important efforts to activate this new development model in the African Sahel region through the projects carried out within this framework. Finally, the last section assesses the economic impacts of this orientation as well as the challenges it faces.

6.The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Project: Meanings and Contents

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Initiative was launched in 2001 as an innovative approach to promote development and cooperation among African countries. It aimed to address the consequences of the continent’s marginalization, with a focus on integrating Africa into the global economy. The initiative represents a commitment by African leaders to eradicate poverty and put the continent on a path of sustainable growth. This partnership differs from previous initiatives in its scope and collective approach, as it is the first time African governments have committed to taking concrete action to address the continent’s development challenges. However, a key question arises: how does this initiative differ from previous projects?

NEPAD was conceived as a response to Africa’s economic marginalization and growing disparities between the continent and developed nations [3]  . By addressing the main obstacles holding back Africa’s growth, such as poverty, food insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and poor governance, the initiative sought to position Africa as a global actor in its own right. It is based on a self-sufficient development model and aims to attract foreign investment while strengthening the continent’s internal capacities.

One of the main innovations of NEPAD is its partnership approach; unlike previous initiatives that were mainly led by external actors, NEPAD was formulated by African leaders themselves[4] . This represents a fundamental change in the way development is viewed, as it emphasizes local ownership and initiative. African leaders adopted this model with the aim of ending marginalization and strengthening economic and political ties within Africa and with the rest of the world.

NEPAD has also been seen as a framework for multilateral diplomatic cooperation among African countries aimed at fostering political and economic stability in the continent [5] . However, this ambition has raised questions about the implementation of the partnership and its ability to overcome internal differences between countries and students. While some argue that NEPAD has enabled a new dynamic of cooperation, others highlight the challenges related to the implementation of the projects envisaged, in particular because of the political instability in some regions and the dependence on external aid.

NEPAD’s objectives, set out in its 2001 framework document [6]  , are ambitious and aim to eradicate poverty, promote inclusive and sustainable growth, and ensure Africa’s better integration into the global economy. To achieve these objectives, specific projects have been defined, such as those relating to infrastructure, education, and health. However, one of the main criticisms of NEPAD is its lack of means and tools to ensure the effective implementation of these projects.

Within its theoretical framework, NEPAD is part of a long tradition of African efforts to overcome the economic dependence inherited from the colonial period. In the 1960s, newly independent African countries already sought to organize for economic development by adopting a development model centered on self-sufficiency and state intervention. These efforts, often supported by “national modernization” strategies, laid the foundation for inter-African cooperation but remained constrained by many political and economic obstacles.

Another key question is whether NEPAD has really created a sustainable cooperation framework or whether it has remained dependent on the will of the participating countries. Although progress has been made, particularly in the areas of governance and infrastructure, the impact of NEPAD has been uneven and has often been limited by internal conflicts, corruption, and lack of resources. The accession of NEPAD by the African Union in 2002 strengthened its role within continental architecture but also stressed the need to rethink governance mechanisms to ensure true cohesion among member countries. The adoption of this development agenda has made it possible to redefine priorities in economic and social policies, with a particular focus on governance and public policies.

In conclusion, although NEPAD has introduced innovative elements into Africa’s development, it is not free from criticism. Progress is often hampered by persistent structural problems. The initiative has certainly made it possible to strengthen links between African countries and has paved the way for enhanced cooperation on crucial issues such as infrastructure and governance, but dependence on external funding and complex project management remain significant challenges.

7 NEPAD: A New Model for Africa’s Sustainable Development

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) cannot be seen as an isolated or exclusive initiative but rather as a continuation of African efforts already initiated since the 1960 [7]  . At that time, the newly independent countries sought to free themselves from the economic dependence inherited from colonialism and build an autonomous development model focused on state intervention and the promotion of industrial development as an alternative to dependence on imports.

However, the lack of a unified vision and mechanisms for continental cooperation limited the progress made. African integration and the need for a strong presence on the world stage were evident, but divergences among African countries led to the creation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. The OAU, although successful in combating colonialism and condemning apartheid, has failed to establish effective cooperation among its members nor to resolve the continent’s internal conflicts. Initiatives like the Lagos Plan (1980) and the Conflict Prevention Mechanism (1993) have failed to produce tangible results, mainly due to the lack of funding and international support.

The Lagos Plan, aimed at promoting economic integration based on self-sufficiency and regional cooperation, has not yielded the expected results [8]   . The failure of these initiatives has been magnified by internal problems, such as poor governance, the lack of political will of many governments, and insufficient donor support. In parallel, beginning in the 1980s, international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), introduced “blueprint” policies and structural adjustment programs, which have been widely criticized for their adverse effects, including austerity measures that have exacerbated poverty and economic fragility in African countries.

Thus, the failure of these strategies has highlighted the need to rethink the role of the state in Africa’s economic and social development. It is in this context that NEPAD emerges not only as a new framework for cooperation but also as a response to the limitations of previous initiatives. NEPAD was designed to integrate Africa into the global economy, eradicate poverty, and strengthen cooperation between African countries and external partners while taking into account lessons learned from past failures.

One of the fundamental principles of NEPAD is based on the idea of the “African Renaissance”, a concept linked to historical movements such as Pan-Africanism, Negritude, and Ubuntu. Although this concept does not follow a uniform doctrinal line, it reflects the will of African leaders to take charge of their destiny to promote democratic governance and strengthen Africa’s place in the global system. This vision was realized through the negotiations on African debt, which began at the OAU summit in 1999 in Surt, Libya, and reinforced at the Havana summit in 2000.

The process culminated with the OAU summit in Togo in 2000, where Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, and Olusegun Obasanjo were tasked with designing a development agenda to revitalize Africa. This process was supported by G8 leaders at the Okinawa Summit in Japan in 2000, marking a significant step forward in the development of NEPAD.In January 2001, the “African Millennium Renaissance Programme” was presented at the World Economic Forum in Davos by Thabo Mbeki, supported by African leaders such as Olusegun Obasanjo, Benjamin Mkapa, and Abdoulaye Wade.

At the same event, the Senegalese President presented the “Omega Plan for the Development of Africa” while the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) proposed the “Compact for the Reconstruction of Africa”. These proposals were integrated to create a unified framework, NEPAD, which was adopted as the key agenda for the development of the African continent.NEPAD is based on several principles: South-South cooperation among African countries, which enhanced cooperation with industrialized countries and donors, as well as a strong commitment to good governance, democracy, and human rights. It also places particular emphasis on key areas such as education, infrastructure, health, and women’s participation in economic and social development. However, some have criticized these commitments, which are oriented towards external models aimed at meeting international and Western standards rather than the specific needs of African countries.

Skeptics point out that NEPAD could strengthen Africa’s dependence on international donors by requiring its member countries to comply with external criteria and commitments. On the other hand, supporters of the initiative defend the idea that NEPAD represents a pragmatic combination of internal and external strategies aimed at promoting reforms while remaining faithful to African realities.

NEPAD differs from previous initiatives in that it introduced an innovative element: the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), which was adopted in 2002 [9] . This mechanism allows African countries to assess their own performance in terms of governance, social reforms, and sustainable development. It is a tool for self-monitoring and exchange of experiences, where countries can learn from each other and take corrective action without resorting to coercive sanctions. This mechanism was praised for its proactive and mutually beneficial approach aimed at strengthening governance in Africa.

NEPAD, although often criticized for its close links with external donors and its liberal approach, represents a significant effort to transform Africa into a global economic and political powerhouse. It is based on the political will of African leaders and their commitment to solving the continent’s structural problems while relying on international support to ensure the necessary funding to achieve its objectives.

In conclusion, NEPAD is a strategic and comprehensive framework that seeks to address the challenges of underdevelopment, poverty, and conflict in Africa while encouraging better regional and international cooperation. However, its success will depend on the effective implementation of the commitments made by African countries, the continued support of international partners, and the ability of African leaders to carry out substantial and sustainable reforms in their respective countries.

8 .Objectives and principles of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD)

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is an ambitious initiative that aims to transform the African continent by stimulating economic growth, reducing poverty, and strengthening its integration into the global economy. Founded in 2001, NEPAD aims to enable Africa to achieve a rate of GDP growth greater than 7% over 15 years, with the ambition of attracting foreign direct investment of the order of $64 billion per year. This high growth rate is essential to create jobs, improve living conditions, and develop the infrastructure necessary for the continent’s economic progress.

NEPAD is part of a broader international development framework, aligning its goals with those of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). These goals include halving extreme poverty, universal access to education, primary education, gender equality, reduction of child and maternal mortality rates, and access to reproductive health services for all by 2015. The initiative is also committed to reversing the loss of environmental resources and promoting sustainable development, with particular attention to combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malaria.

NEPAD also attaches great importance to reducing inequalities between Africa and industrialized countries to enhance the continent’s participation in global globalization processes.

Unlike past initiatives, such as the Lagos Plan of Action, which advocated some form of decoupling from the global economy, the NEPAD seeks to integrate Africa into the global economy more effectively.

The aim is to enable Africa to reap the benefits of globalization while mitigating its disadvantages. In other words, NEPAD proposes a strategy that relies on active participation in the global economy while seeking to address the continent’s specific challenges.

NEPAD’s strategic vision is based on several key priorities, including strengthening infrastructure, promoting human development, and reducing poverty [10] . The initiative also focuses on governance, calling for deep institutional reforms, the protection of human rights, improved transparency, and the fight against corruption. The objective is to create a stable political and economic environment capable of supporting sustainable development.

However, despite its ambitious objectives, the implementation of NEPAD faces many challenges. African governments face important internal barriers, such as conflict, political instability, and mismanagement of resources. The external context, marked by global economic pressures, also makes the implementation of these objectives more complex. Necessary reforms require a strong engagement of African leaders, as well as close cooperation between actors.

Local and international calls for the success of NEPAD will depend on an ability to overcome these challenges and create the necessary conditions for sustainable economic growth.

Finally, although NEPAD has a strong strategic plan, critics point out that some of its goals may seem unrealistic or difficult to achieve without radical action. Some voices, such as Henning Melbe’s, believe that NEPAD could fail to achieve its growth and development ambitions without a thorough review of its priorities and strategies. Implementation challenges, including governance, resource mobilization, and disease control, require concerted national and international efforts.

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), launched in 2001, aims to transform the African continent through economic growth, poverty reduction, and the integration of Africa into the global economy. Its main objective is to achieve an annual GDP growth rate greater than 7% over 15 years and attract $64 billion per year in foreign direct investment. These efforts aim to create jobs, improve living conditions, and develop the infrastructure necessary for sustainable development.

NEPAD is part of a broader international framework aligned with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Its priorities include poverty reduction, access to primary education, gender equality, reduction of child mortality and kindergarten, and access to reproductive health services. NEPAD seeks to reduce inequalities between Africa and industrialized countries, integrating the continent into the global economy while mitigating its disadvantages. Unlike previous initiatives, such as the Lagos Plan of Action, which advocated decoupling the global economy, NEPAD prioritizes Africa’s active participation in globalization.

Another NEPAD priority is governance. The initiative calls for the reformation of institutions to improve transparency, protect human rights, and fight corruption. These reforms aim to establish a stable political and economic environment that is essential for sustainable development.

However, NEPAD implementation faces considerable challenges. African governments face internal obstacles such as conflict,

political instability, and mismanagement of resources [11] . Global economic pressures also complicate the achievement of the goals. Reforms require a strong commitment from African leaders and close cooperation with partners in trade fairs. The success of NEPAD will depend on the ability to overcome these challenges and create conditions conducive to sustainable growth.

Despite its ambitious approach, some critics, such as Henning Melbe, believe that NEPAD could fail to achieve its objectives without a review of its priorities and strategies. Program implementation requires concerted efforts to address issues of governance, resource mobilization, and disease control.

The NEPAD framework document specifies that to achieve the growth target of 7%, Africa must fill an annual resource gap of 12% of its GDP, or about $64 billion  [12]   . Proposed solutions include increasing local savings, improving public revenues, and attracting financing regulations. NEPAD also focuses on debt reduction and official development assistance as complementary sources of funding in the short and medium term.

NEPAD emphasizes the need for quality governance, prioritizing conflict prevention, democracy, inequality reduction, and good resource management resources. The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) is a key instrument for assessing whether countries are meeting governance standards. This process is essential to ensure a development that is sustainable and inclusive.

Finally, NEPAD is based on the idea of strengthening the role of the State. The initiative argues that efficient markets require an enabling environment created by a ‘capable state’. Although this approach is in line with the World Bank’s proposals on the role of the state in the economy, it raises the question of whether the goal of NEPAD is achievable without massive external support. Indeed, the enormous dependence on development aid and liberal norms inspired by Western countries raises the question of Africa’s true autonomy in this process of transformation.

In summary, although NEPAD offers an ambitious vision for Africa’s future, its success will depend on the ability to overcome internal and external challenges, as well as continued cooperation between African and international actors.

9. New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) as a mechanism for the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063

  Agenda 2063 is the long-term strategic plan to transform Africa into a global power, aiming for inclusive and sustainable development. It emerges from the vision of African leaders who, during the 50th anniversary of the OAU in 2013, reaffirmed their commitment to the social, economic, and political change of the continent. This agenda is based on the integration, unity, and sustainable development of Africa while also proposing priorities such as economic prosperity, good governance, peace, security, and the preservation of African culture and heritage.

Agenda 2063 is based on seven major aspirations, including a prosperous, integrated, and politically unified Africa, where development is based on democracy, respect for human rights, and effective governance. It also focuses on peace, security, and the empowerment of African peoples, including women and youth. The ultimate goal is to make Africa an influential player on the world stage, with control over its natural resources and a strong voice in international affairs.

To realize this vision, several key projects are being implemented, aimed at accelerating economic growth, strengthening African identity, and promoting peace and security through continental integration and appropriate policies.

To realize the aspirations of Agenda 2063, several major projects have been launched to accelerate economic growth and strengthen integration in Africa. Some of the initiatives taken include:

9.1 African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): Create a single market for goods, services, and the free movement of people and capital to boost intra-African trade and strengthen Africa’s position in global negotiations.

9.2Integrated high-speed rail network: Connect major African capitals to facilitate trade and reduce transport costs.

9.3 Strategy for African products: Add value to African resources to better integrate the continent into global value chains.

9.4 “Inga” hydroelectric dam: Provide low-cost energy to support industrialization and access to electricity across the continent.

9.5 Africa’s Single Air Transport Market: Improving Interregional Connectivity and Strengthening Economic Integration.

9.6 African passport and freedom of movement: Facilitate citizens’ mobility and stimulate continental integration.

9.7 Silencing the Guns: Promoting peace and security by ending armed conflict and human rights violations.

These projects, supported by institutions like the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), aim to transform Africa into a global economic and political power.

It is possible to say that NEPAD has become a “key player” in the efforts of

development and that it forms the basis of Agenda 2063. It is even possible to confirm that NEPAD is a leader in African integration and the main tool on which the continent relies to achieve sustainable development. What particularly distinguishes NEPAD in its journey is its flexibility and ability to adapt to different challenges, which has allowed it to evolve into a central agency multifunctional within the African Union.

1O. Algeria’s Role in Advancing Agenda 2063: Challenges and Opportunities for Africa’s Future

With regard to Algeria, it has begun to implement Agenda 2063 by integrating the aforementioned aspirations and objectives into its national strategy.

She presented her first progress report on the implementation of the first ten-year plan 2013-2023, which assessed the various achievements and progress towards the achievement of development goals in Africa[13]. The official website of the African Union Development Agency “AUDA-NEPAD” provided detailed figures on Algeria’s achievements in this area. Algeria’s performance was one of the strongest national performances on the African continent, with a rate of 58%, which is a good result compared to many other countries. Algeria occupied third place at the continental level, behind Senegal   65% and Ethiopia   60%. The graphs and diagrams provided illustrate the percentages achieved by Algeria in relation to the seven aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It emerges from these graphs that Algeria has achieved remarkable results with regard to aspiration No. 04, aimed at building a peaceful and secure Africa, where it has reached a rate of 100%. This figure highlights the crucial role of Algerian diplomacy in strengthening security and peace, as well as in resolving active conflicts on the continent (Mali, Niger, Libya, etc.). The security aspect has always been a major concern for Algeria, particularly in the African Sahel region, which represents a fertile ground for asymmetric security threats.

 The security initiatives mentioned earlier confirm this approach.Thus, aspiration No. 04 is one of the key priorities, while aspiration No. 06 comes in second position, illustrating Algeria’s commitment to ensuring development based on the efforts of African peoples, with a particular focus on youth and women. Algeria achieved a score of 75%, a very advanced result that reflects the strong vision that the construction of Africa can only be achieved through the Africans themselves, giving an important place to the empowerment of young people and women and eliminating gender inequalities.In addition, Algeria has achieved fairly close results for aspiration No. 01 (building a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development) and aspiration No. 02 (achieving an integrated and politically united Africa, based on the ideals of African unity), with respective scores of 59% and 56%, relatively good results thanks to the structural projects and financial aid it has provided to support Africa’s development. Algeria also managed to achieve a moderate score for the aspiration to make Africa a strong and influential global partner, with a rate of 44%. On the other hand, it recorded a rather weak performance of 21% for aspiration No. 03, aimed at promoting good governance, democracy, and human rights.

 The reason is clear: the majority of African political regimes do not respect true democratic standards, not to mention political corruption, lack of freedom of expression, and weak state institutions, especially in countries plagued by recurrent conflicts. Finally, Algeria obtained no score for aspiration No. 05, which concerns the construction of an Africa with a strong cultural identity, a common heritage, and ethical values, due to the phenomenon of “cultural exile” rooted in colonial history and the marginalization of authentic African cultures, as well as the weakness of the African education system.

With regard to the 20 objectives stemming from these seven aspirations, Algeria’s performance has been varied[14]. Algeria has made significant progress on several goals, while others have shown moderate to low results. The graphics below show these variations accurately. Thus, Algeria achieved a perfect performance of 100% for four objectives: objective 07, objective 13, objective 14, objective 15. These objectives relate to the achievement of sustainable and climate-resilient societies and economies, the achievement of peace, security, and stability, a stable and peaceful Africa, and a fully functioning African peace and security system.

Algeria also achieved a good performance of 83% for Goal 06, which aimed at achieving a blue/ocean economy, and for Goal 09, which focuses on the creation and operationalization of African monetary and financial institutions. Objectives 10, 18, and 17 recorded scores of 76%, 76%, and 74%, respectively, concerning the achievement of infrastructure… It appears from the data that Algeria has recorded contrasting results in the implementation of the objectives of Agenda 2063. Indeed, Algeria has scored well in several areas, but significant challenges remain in some sectors.

Notable results include Goals 07, 13, 14, and 15, where Algeria achieved a score of 100%, including building sustainable economies and societies, peace and security, stability, and the African peace and security system. In addition, Algeria achieved a solid performance of 83% for objectives 06 and 09, relating to the blue economy and the creation of African financial and monetary institutions.

However, Algeria has encountered difficulties with some objectives, including those related to economic transformation and job creation (objective 04), as well as those related to the consolidation of democratic values, human rights, and governance, with below-average results. For example, Goal 11, on democracy, human rights, justice, and the rule of law, scored 42%. Similarly, Goal 20, to make Africa independent in development financing, reached only 37%.

The weakest performances concerned modern agriculture to increase production and added value (objective 05), with a rate of 22%, as well as the creation of the African Union (objective 08), where Algeria obtained only 9%. Finally, Algeria did not make significant progress in Goals 12 and 16 on the development of capable institutions and Africa’s cultural renaissance, scoring 0% in these areas.

Source : African Union. Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. AFRICAN UNION   Https://Linksshortcut.Com/Ntvma

Through this analysis, it is obvious that Algeria has focused its efforts mainly on the security dimensions of Agenda 2063, which is in line with its strategy of “economic diplomacy” oriented towards peace and security in Africa. Algeria has recorded significant results in the implementation of the objectives relating to peace and security, with a perfect performance in this aspect (objective related to a peaceful and secure Africa). This approach reflects Algeria’s view that security is inseparable from development, particularly in Sahelian countries, where security threats are exacerbated by economic and social challenges, including poverty and lack of development.

With regard to progress in the economic dimensions, Algeria has recorded solid results, which is demonstrated by the projects it supports under Agenda 2063. However, political and cultural aspects have received less attention, and performance in these areas is weaker or even non-existent in some cases (such as a lack of progress in building capable institutions and cultural renaissance).

Algeria has also contributed to several major projects within the AUDA-NEPAD Vision 2063, notably in infrastructure development and regional cooperation. Sample projects include the following:

High-speed rail in Africa: Algeria has completed the detailed study of the integrated rail network, with work in progress for the establishment of this important infrastructure.

Multimodal connectivity for economic development: This project includes the preparation of the feasibility study for the Trans-Maghreb Highway.

The Presidential Initiative for Infrastructure Support in Africa (PICI): Algeria is actively supporting this project, which involves African leaders in developing cross-border infrastructure.

The PIDA Virtual Information Center: This project aims to centralize data related to infrastructure programs in Africa, with Algeria playing a key role in data collection.

Strengthening medical regulation in Africa: Algeria is contributing to the implementation of legislation on medical products to improve access to safe and high-quality medicines.

These projects show Algeria’s commitment to African integration and its willingness to actively contribute to the achievement of the objectives of Agenda 2063, with a focus on infrastructure, economic cooperation, and public health. In summary, Algeria is working to build a united and prosperous Africa but still faces challenges in some political and cultural areas where efforts need to be intensified.

CONCLUSION

The goal of this research is to analyze the role of Algeria’s economic diplomacy within regional and continental initiatives, such as NEPAD and Agenda 2063, and assess the impact of this strategy on the country’s sustainable economic development. This study also seeks to identify the internal and external factors that influence Algeria’s ability to achieve its economic goals through these programs and to understand the challenges it faces in implementing these policies.

However, reports have highlighted an obvious dysfunction in the intra-African trade performance indicators, placing Africa in a difficult position. Algeria’s trade within the continent has not escaped this trend, with figures showing a real weakness in trade exchanges, accounting for less than 1% of Algeria’s total external trade volume. The main reasons for this low percentage are tied to weak industrialization, lack of economic diversification, excessive dependence on oil and gas revenues, and the economy’s reliance on traditional commercial partners, in addition to limited integration of Algeria’s economy into the African trading and financial system.

Nevertheless, Algeria’s engagement in this free trade area is significant in encouraging national institutions and businesses to adopt strategies to penetrate the African market, particularly in sectors such as food products, construction materials, and home appliance industries. This could have positive economic effects in the short to medium term, increasing the volume of trade, especially with several border crossings with Sahel countries, thus facilitating access to their markets and enhancing integration into the heart of Africa.

These results suggest that Algeria’s economic diplomacy is still in its early stages, given the modest results achieved in this area compared to its successes in classical diplomacy, especially through the roles it has played since its independence, managing to resolve many conflicts in Africa through mechanisms such as mediation and good offices. Algeria has largely succeeded in presenting itself as a guarantor of peace in Africa and the world, whereas the promotion of its economic diplomacy has not enjoyed the same level of success despite the economic potential it possesses. Algeria is more than ever called to leverage these potentials and restructure its diplomatic activity to meet the requirements of activating this new tool.

Recommendations:

Based on these findings, several recommendations can be made to help Algeria’s economic diplomacy overcome the challenges and obstacles hindering its success in achieving its goals:

1. Diversify the Economy: To strengthen the impact of its economic diplomacy, Algeria must accelerate the diversification of its economy beyond hydrocarbons, investing in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and services to reduce dependency on oil and gas revenues.
2. Enhance Intra-African Trade: Algeria should prioritize improving its trade relationships within the African continent by addressing the barriers to regional trade, increasing investment in infrastructure, and fostering greater collaboration with neighboring countries, particularly in sectors where Algeria has competitive advantages.
3. Strengthen Institutional Frameworks: Algeria needs to bolster the institutional frameworks that govern its economic diplomacy, ensuring better coordination between various government bodies, the private sector, and international partners to achieve synergies that will promote the country’s economic development.
4. Leverage Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): Algeria should capitalize on the AfCFTA to increase its participation in the broader African market, improve its trade relations with other African nations, and become a stronger economic player within the region.
5. Promote Private Sector Involvement: Algeria’s economic diplomacy should also focus on promoting the role of the private sector in international trade and investment, ensuring that Algerian businesses are well-equipped to engage in regional and global markets.
6. Invest in Regional Connectivity: Algeria should focus on improving regional connectivity, particularly in terms of transportation and digital infrastructure, to facilitate trade and economic collaboration across the African continent.
7. Promote Economic Diplomacy at the International Level: Algeria should strengthen its economic diplomacy by enhancing its presence in international economic forums and fostering bilateral and multilateral partnerships with countries and organizations that align with its development goals.

REFERENCES

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• African Union Development Agency – NEPAD. Second Continental Report On The Implementation Of Agenda 2063. Johannesburg, South Africa: African Union Development Agency, 2022,
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[1] United Nations Conference On Trade And Development, “The Trans-Saharan Road Corridor Towards An Economic Corridor: Commercialization And Management Of The Trans-Saharan Road,” (Geneva: UNCTAD, 2022), P. 40

[2] Ottosen, Halfdan Lynge. NEPAD’s Contribution To Democracy And Good Governance In Africa. Working Paper. Sweden: International Institute For Democracy And Electoral Assistance, 2010, P. 12

[3] TSHIBAMBA Buabua, Excerpt From The Master’s Thesis Of Dodit, “The Integration Of African States Within The African Union: A Study Of Its Effectiveness In Light Of European Integration Practices,” William Booth University Of Kinshasa, 2007.Page 87

[4] Akokpari, John. “Africa’s Quest For Long-Term Development: Does NEPAD Provide The Necessary Policy Framework?” South African Journal Of International Affairs, May 2008, 11(1): 32-54.

DOI: 10.4314/Ajia.V11i1.57259.

[5] Kimemia, Douglas. “The Impacts Of Political Conflicts In Africa.” Journal Of African Conflicts And Peace Studies, February 2021, 4(2).  DOI: 10.5038/2325-484X.4.2.1140.

[6] Charles Ukeje, Rethinking Security In The Age Of Uncertain Globalisation: NEPAD And Human Security In Africa In The Twenty-First Century, African Journal Of International Affairs, Vol. 11, No. 1, 2008, Pp. 1–31

[7] Unya, Ikenna Ukpabi. “The New Partnership For Africa’s Development And Regional Integration In Africa: Challenges And Prospects.” Kashere Journal Of Politics And International Relations Vol. 2, Issue 1. June, 2024 Page 98

[8] African Development Bank, African Development Fund, “Policy On Economic Cooperation And Regional Integration”, February 2000.Page 13

[9] “NEPAD’s Contribution To Democracy And Good Governance In Africa” By Halfdan Lynge Ottosen, Programme Officer For Africa At International IDEA.Page 4

[10] Cooperation Priorities For Sub-Saharan Africa And The New Partnership For Africa’s Development (NEPAD)Written By: Jacques Bugnicourt, In Tribute To His Role In Africa Report – April 2002 Page 31

[11] European Council On Foreign Relations.  Mapping African Regional Cooperation.” ECFR.Eu, Last Accessed January 02, 2025, At 23:49. Https://Linksshortcut.Com/BLKCW

[12] Brodin, Claire. NEPAD, Africa’s Policy Initiative: Thinking Its Development In The 21st Century. Page 356.

[13] African Union. Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. AFRICAN UNION Last Viewed On January 5, 2025 At 5:09 Pm. Available At: Https://Linksshortcut.Com/Ntvma

[14] African Union Development Agency – NEPAD. Second Continental Report On The Implementation Of Agenda 2063. Johannesburg, South Africa: African Union Development Agency, 2022, Pp. 52-62