AP mag

INVESTING IN AFRICA
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
For several decades, international investors have been slow
to look at Africa. The word “Africa” invokes images of civil
wars, extremism, famine, corruption and poverty. This has
caused foreign investors to steer clear of this greatly endowed
continent, with few exceptions. Many business leaders in the west
have remained sceptical about Africa. This perception is evidently
lagging behind the continent's new realities.
A different view of Africa has emerged in recent times. Today, the
continent is home to some of the world fastest growing
economics and boasts of the highest risk-adjusted returns of
foreign direct investment among emerging economies in the
world.
Africa's economies are growing at break neck speed and the
region continues to provide opportunity beyond the Eurozone
volatility.
The continent is known for its abundant natural resources and
opportunities. These have accounted for the sudden increasing
interest from savvy international investors. Once over looked,
now Africa is the toast of international investors. For instance, the
United States and Europe who are the continent's traditional
business partners now face very stiff competition from emerging
market investors who have been quicker to seize new
opportunities, Chinese and Indian businesses are rapidly
expanding in Africa by the day.
AFRICAPEACE