We are pleased to announce the publication of Economic Integration of COMESA, co-authored by Fitzgerald Witika, CEO and Founder of Research Expert Solutions, and esteemed economist Dr. Debesh Bhowmik. This book, now available to the public, offers an insightful analysis on the economic integration of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). It serves as an essential resource for researchers, university students, and policymakers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the economic dynamics and policies that shape the COMESA region.
Dato’ (Amb) Dr. Mohd Yusoff Bin A. Bakar, Vice Chancellor & CEO, Lincoln University College, Malaysia, released the book “Economic Integration of COMESA” in the presence of Prof. Dr. Abhijit Ghosh, Dean, Faculty of Business, and Prof. Dr. Sandeep Poddar, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation), during the 2nd International Conference on Sustainable Developments in Materials Science, Technology, and Engineering (ICSDMSTE 2024) on July 25, 2024 (Lincoln University College, 2024).
The book is co-authored by Prof. Dr. Debesh Bhowmik, Research Professor, Lincoln University College, and Fitzgerald Witika, an Economist at Research Expert Solution, Lusaka, Zambia.
Prologue by Dante A. Urbina to “Economic Integration of COMESA” (Dr. Debesh Bhowmik and Fitzgerald Witika)
At Research Expert Solutions, we are thrilled to share the insightful prologue penned by Dr. Dante A. Urbina for the recent book authored by our esteemed CEO, Fitzgerald Witika, and co-authored with the distinguished economist Dr. Debesh Bhowmik. Dr. Urbina, a renowned figure in economics, graciously introduces this significant work, emphasizing the critical value it holds for understanding the economic integration of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), an organization representing 21 African nations and a population exceeding 600 million.
In his foreword, Dr. Urbina highlights how the book masterfully compiles a series of scientific articles authored by Dr. Bhowmik and Mr. Witika. These articles delve deeply into the structure, historical development, and key macroeconomic indicators of COMESA, including the intricacies of intra- and inter-bloc trade. As Dr. Urbina notes, the authors employ a wide range of advanced econometric methods, such as unit root tests, stability tests, ARIMA models, vector error correction models, and convergence analysis, all to explore the bloc’s economic stability and integration potential.
Dr. Urbina also acknowledges the authors’ rigorous examination of COMESA’s progress toward satisfying the criteria of an Optimal Currency Area (OCA). Despite significant strides, he points out the authors’ findings that challenges remain—particularly in areas like external debt, fiscal deficits, inflation, and lending interest rates. The authors’ work further reveals that, while inflation rates show promising convergence, the bloc continues to grapple with asymmetric shocks from GDP growth rates, exchange rate fluctuations, and money supply changes.
Summing up his foreword, Dr. Urbina underscores the book’s value as a comprehensive resource, providing not only precise econometric analysis but also practical insights into COMESA’s journey toward economic unity and the potential for a common currency. We at Research Expert Solutions are honored by Dr. Urbina’s support and endorsement of this vital work and are confident it will become an indispensable tool for policymakers, economists, and anyone dedicated to Africa’s economic advancement.
Dedication
2024 has been a year of both progress and profound personal loss for Mr. Witika. Amid the publication process, he experienced the passing of his beloved mother, Stevania Mubanga Witika, on April 11, a moment he describes as the most emotionally challenging experience of his life. This tragic loss brought about a period of intense grief, impacting his motivation during the writing process. Despite these circumstances, Mr. Witika was able to complete the book with the encouragement and support of his co-author, Dr. Bhowmik. Dr. Bhowmik’s unwavering dedication, stepping in to write sections Mr. Witika could not complete, exemplifies the strength of their collaborative effort.
In Mr. Witika’s own words, Economic Integration of COMESA is a “very powerful book” aimed at empowering the academic and policy-making communities. He extends his gratitude to Dr. Dante A. Urbina for contributing the Foreword and to the team at Kunal Books for their patience and commitment to the project’s completion.
The book is dedicated to the memory of Stevania Mubanga Witika, whose enduring influence and love inspired her son’s achievements. Mr. Witika’s touching dedication captures his profound respect and admiration, expressing, “As above (in heaven), so below (on earth), as within (in my heart), so without (your physical presence). May your soul continue to rest in eternal peace.”
We congratulate Mr. Witika and Dr. Bhowmik on this significant publication and anticipate that their work will be a valued contribution to the study of economic integration in Africa.
At Research Expert Solutions, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality research that drives innovation and fosters sustainable development. Our commitment is not just to research excellence but also to making a tangible impact by addressing complex economic and social challenges. With every publication, whether it’s books, academic papers, or consultancy services, we strive to produce insights that inform policy decisions, support economic growth, and inspire meaningful change across various sectors.
We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing to release cutting-edge research that offers valuable perspectives on both regional and global issues. Our team of expert researchers, authors, and consultants remains focused on delivering thought-provoking work that not only meets rigorous academic standards but also provides practical solutions for the advancement of our communities and economies.
We invite our readers and collaborators to stay connected with us for the latest news, announcements, and publications. Follow Research Expert Solutions as we expand our portfolio and bring you more impactful research, insightful analyses, and valuable consultancy to support growth and development.
Written by: Research Expert Solutions Group
Email: resgroup@research-expert-solutions.com
Date: 28/10/2024
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