November 17, 2010

UK Government Group Investing $300MN Per Year in Africa

In an article found here YahooFinance reports that "Britain's overseas investment arm plans to invest about $300MN a year in coming years in African companies because the continent is registering high economic growth rates and it has become easier to do business in Africa."

The article notes that the funds represent about half of the funds that the manager - The Commonwealth Development Corporation (or CDC Group) - will deploy in coming years. The Fund's chief executive also mentioned a specific focus on consumer goods and infrastructure, where they see strong prospects for growth. He also noted that compared with 10 or 20 years ago it has become easier to do business in sub-Saharan Africa.

November 16, 2010

IMF: Fundamental Changes Which Are Boosting African Growth

In an article found here, the International Monetary Fund discusses a new book by Steve Radelet Emerging Africa: How 17 Countries Are Leading the Way in which the author notes five key factors which are facilitating Africa's growth. Radelet notes that the rise of democracy, stronger economic policies, the end of the debt crisis, new technology, and a new generation of leaders are all changing the face of Africa.