What is Imani Development?
Imani Development is a private economic and development consultancy firm that’s been driving economic growth and poverty reduction in the developing world for over 30 years. With a footprint across East and Southern Africa, the Caribbean, South East Asia, and the Pacific, Imani advises policymakers, governments, development agencies, regional and international organizations, and the private sector. Their core work revolves around creating strategies that truly make a difference in these regions.
Main Benefits of Imani Development’s Projects
Imani’s projects deliver tangible results that impact economies and communities. Here are some key figures and facts that highlight their work:
- Study of over 230 Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across 43 African countries, revealing their role in boosting export sophistication and local welfare.
- Development of COMESA’s AfCFTA implementation strategy, ensuring smooth regional trade integration.
- Creation of the EAC NTBs Mobile App, making it easier for small-scale traders to report non-tariff barriers.
- Coordination of the Africa-US Trade & Investment relationship study, providing strategic options beyond 2025.
- Capacity building in Malawi’s Coordinated Border Management, enhancing cross-border trade efficiency.
Reassessing Special Economic Zones in Africa
One standout project is the review of SEZ investors in Africa, running from December 2023 to June 2024. As Project Coordinator, Imani led a groundbreaking study titled “Reassessing the Role of Special Economic Zones in Africa.” This research dives deep into how SEZs can boost export performance and improve socioeconomic conditions, especially near industrial zones. The study emphasizes that the success of SEZs hinges on governance models, incentive structures, and alignment with regional integration and sustainability goals. It’s a robust piece of work that sheds light on how these zones can be game-changers for African economies.
Driving Regional Trade Integration
Another key focus has been the development of the COMESA Regional AfCFTA Implementation Strategy from July 2022 to April 2024. This project produced a draft strategy and action plan designed to ensure the effective roll-out of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) within the COMESA region. By facilitating smoother trade flows and reducing barriers, this initiative supports economic growth and regional cooperation.
Innovations in Non-Tariff Barrier Reporting
Imani Development also played a crucial role in developing the ICT-based Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) Reporting System and Monitoring Mechanism for East African Community (EAC) Partner States between December 2020 and November 2022. The EAC NTBs Mobile App, funded by TradeMark Africa, simplifies the process of reporting NTBs for small-scale traders and citizens. Available on both Google Play Store and Apple iOS, this app empowers users to easily flag trade obstacles, promoting transparency and smoother commerce across borders.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 1: No Poverty – by supporting economic growth and poverty reduction initiatives.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – through enhancing trade, investment, and employment opportunities.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by improving industrial zones and trade infrastructure.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – via regional integration and inclusive economic policies.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – through collaboration with governments, agencies, and private sectors.
Supporting Trade and Capacity Building Across Africa
Beyond these flagship projects, Imani Development has been instrumental in various other initiatives. From fisheries licensing training in Malawi to supporting South Sudan’s accession to the East African Community, their work spans multiple sectors and countries. They’ve helped design monitoring and evaluation systems for trade agreements, supported border management, and contributed to agriculture finance studies in Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, and Eswatini. Each project reflects a commitment to thoroughness, innovation, and strategic impact, making Imani a trusted partner in development consultancy.
