Overview
- A new IMF outlook projects Africa’s 2026 economic growth will outpace Asia for the first time on record.
- High prices for key commodities and a softer dollar are supporting the regional upswing and easing external financing pressures.
- Nigeria’s reforms after subsidy removal—rate hikes, a more open exchange rate, and fewer food import restrictions—slowed inflation that had neared 35% by mid‑2024.
- South Africa’s power crisis has eased for large firms after Operation Vulindlela reforms at Eskom, yet public services remain strained and unemployment stays above 30%.
- Near‑term export openings include a one‑year U.S. AGOA extension for South Africa and new trade talks with China, while analysts urge moving past the simplistic ‘Africa Rising’ narrative.