Governance

General Assembly is the central governing body of the Borderless Alliance, a dynamic coalition comprising over 100 member organizations dedicated to fostering seamless trade and transportation across West Africa. Comprised of representatives from diverse sectors including logistics, transportation, government, and academia, the General Assembly serves as a forum for strategic decision-making and collaborative action to address the region’s trade challenges.

At its helm, the General Assembly is guided by a Board of Advisors, consisting of seasoned experts and thought leaders with a wealth of experience in regional trade and economic development. This advisory board provides invaluable insights and recommendations to steer the Alliance towards its goals of promoting cross-border trade facilitation, reducing barriers, and enhancing economic integration.

Supporting the General Assembly is an Executive Committee, composed of dedicated individuals drawn from member organizations, the Executive Committee works tirelessly to translate the Assembly’s vision into actionable plans and tangible outcomes.

Borderless Alliance, a prominent advocate for trade facilitation and regional integration in West Africa, operates under the guidance and expertise of its esteemed Board of Advisors. Presently, the Board boasts the representation of two key regional economic communities: the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). This inclusion underscores the organization’s commitment to collaborating closely with the region’s regulatory bodies to advance its mission.

Moreover, the strategic partnership with notable partners such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the German Federal Enterprise for International Cooperation (GIZ), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the World Bank, and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) further strengthens Borderless Alliance’s capacity to drive impactful initiatives. These partnerships not only provide crucial financial support but also facilitate knowledge exchange, technical assistance, and the implementation of innovative solutions to overcome barriers to trade and enhance economic opportunities within the region.

The diverse composition of the Board of Advisors, coupled with robust support from international partners, equips Borderless Alliance with the resources and expertise needed to effectively address challenges hindering cross-border trade and promote policies that foster economic growth and prosperity across West Africa. Through collaborative efforts and strategic guidance, the organization continues to play a pivotal role in advancing regional integration and facilitating trade across borders.

The Borderless Alliance Executive Committee stands as a beacon of leadership and collaboration in promoting seamless trade and transportation across African borders. Comprising seven elected members, this esteemed body plays a pivotal role in steering the vision and initiatives of the Borderless Alliance towards greater regional integration and economic prosperity.

President: At the helm of the Executive Committee sits the President, a figure of paramount importance entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the Alliance’s overarching objectives. Endowed with leadership qualities and a deep understanding of cross-border trade dynamics, the President serves as the primary advocate for harmonized trade policies and streamlined logistics across member states.

Two Vice Presidents: Working in tandem with the President are two Vice Presidents who lend their expertise and support in executing the Alliance’s agenda. The Vice Presidents play a crucial role in amplifying the Alliance’s impact and fostering partnerships both within and outside the organization.

Four Members: Completing the Executive Committee are four esteemed members, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Elected through a democratic process, these individuals represent diverse sectors, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are duly considered in decision-making processes.

In essence, the Borderless Alliance Executive Committee serves as the driving force behind the organization’s mission to create a conducive environment for trade and investment across African borders. Through visionary leadership, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment, the Committee endeavors to unlock the full potential of regional integration, thereby fostering economic growth, job creation, and prosperity for the people of Africa.

Facilitating the smooth functioning of the General Assembly and its various committees is the Executive Secretariat, a dedicated administrative body, responsible for managing the day-to-day implementation of the Alliance’s activities, organizing and coordinating meetings, disseminating information, and providing logistical support. Through its efficient operation, the Executive Secretariat ensures that the General Assembly remains an effective platform for collaboration, innovation, and progress in advancing the cause of borderless trade in West Africa.

Functions and Responsibilities: The Executive Secretariat, supported by all other Alliance stakeholders, shoulders a myriad of functions and responsibilities aimed at advancing the goals of Borderless Alliance:

Policy Advocacy: Championing policy reforms that facilitate trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and regulatory harmonization across borders.
Strategic Planning: Formulating long-term strategies and action plans to address emerging challenges and capitalize on opportunities for regional economic integration.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with government agencies, private sector entities, civil society organizations, and international partners to garner support and foster collaboration towards shared objectives.
Capacity Building: Initiating programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the capacity of border officials, customs agents, and logistics operators to facilitate smooth cross-border trade flows.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Overseeing the implementation of projects and initiatives, and conducting regular assessments to measure progress and impact, thereby ensuring accountability and transparency.