Sub-Saharan Africa
Is Somaliland a model for regional development?
Somaliland is a thriving and relatively stable part of a region plagued by crime and political violence and offers many investment opportunities. Could the breakaway region become a blueprint for
Part IV of IV: Nigeria’s failed attempt at subsidy reform
This final part in the GRI Series on energy subsidies examines Nigeria’s attempt at reform, and why it went wrong. Gradual adjustment and decision transparency are key elements of success.
Foreign investment in Equatorial Guinea resilient despite corruption
Equatorial Guinea has rich energy reserves, and despite corruption and political instability foreign investment has continued. Proposed plans to diversify the economy could create new investment opportunities. A recent indictment of the president’s eldest
Eskom energy crisis will influence South African elections
“Rolling blackouts” that hit South Africa on 6 March 2014 could influence the upcoming elections. The state-owned power utility company Eskom blames the weather and ageing infrastructure. Eskom has struggled
4 policy areas South Africa must address
South Africa faces increased regional competition as a place for investment. Here are 4 areas that may help the country stay ahead. This April marks the three year anniversary of
Uganda homophobia could force oil industry development
Foreign aid to Uganda ended abruptly following a measure recently signed into law prohibiting homosexuality. Uganda may have to rely on developing its oil industry to offset the loss of
Guebuza controls Mozambique as Frelimo picks nominee
After several tense months of political infighting, the ruling Frelimo party of Mozambique finally selected Defense Minister Filipe Jacinto Nyussi as nominee for president. Nyussi’s choice virtually guarantees President Guebuza’s influence
Under-the-radar growth increases in southern Africa
Southern African countries will be rapidly growing emerging markets in the near future. The combination of growing political stability and an expanding middle class of consumers makes the region an
Pressure mounts on Ghana’s government to address imbalances
Deteriorating twin deficits have put pressure on the government to adopt austerity measures. But risks of social unrest and reduced FDI may force authorities to moderate their rebalancing efforts. Although
Africa’s start-ups show potential but lack access to capital
Thanks to the success of its mobile phone market, Africa’s tech start-up scene has developed rapidly, with tremendous market potential. Nevertheless, lack of capital and high service costs could stand in the way
