Integration means bringing separate parts together to form a whole. National integration is the effort to unite people of different regions, cultures, languages, tribes and social backgrounds so that they develop a shared national identity.
Meaning of national integration
National integration promotes the idea that all citizens belong to one country and should work together despite their differences. It encourages citizens to place national interests above narrow tribal, regional or group interests.
Aims of national integration
- to promote national unity in a country with many cultural and regional groups;
- to reduce tribalism, regionalism and discrimination;
- to encourage economic and social development;
- to promote bilingualism, mutual understanding and dialogue;
- to strengthen peace, love and harmonious living; and
- to develop a shared sense of belonging and national consciousness.
Manifestations of national integration
National integration can be seen in everyday national life through:
- the recruitment and transfer of public servants from different regions to serve across the country;
- freedom of movement and the right to settle in different parts of the country;
- the representation of different regions in national institutions;
- the celebration of common national events and public holidays;
- inter-regional and inter-cultural marriages;
- the use of national languages and other means of communication to promote understanding; and
- national programmes that bring citizens together in education, sport, culture and development.
How citizens can promote national integration
Citizens promote national integration when they respect people from other backgrounds, reject discrimination, learn to live peacefully with neighbours, protect public property, participate in national activities and resolve disagreements through dialogue. Schools also promote integration by encouraging cooperation among learners from different communities.
Importance of national integration
National integration creates peace and stability, encourages cooperation, supports development and makes it easier for citizens to solve common problems. It also strengthens patriotism because citizens identify with the country as a whole.
Summary
National integration is the process of building unity among people of different backgrounds. It succeeds when citizens reject discrimination, respect diversity and work together for the common good.
