How optimistic are you that Africa could be an economic leader in the next 10, 20, or 30 years, given recent emerging markets performance?

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 11:50:04 -0500

How do you believe the "developed" landscape of the world will look over the next several decades? Amidst political turmoil and tribal struggle, several economies across Africa are developing at a rapid pace. Private equity companies are identifying opportunities and investing in those businesses that sit outside of the political corruption and have the potential to sustain growth. Are we positioned as an economy to partner with a young, vast, and diverse market across the continent of Africa?

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Dec 16 at 2015 12:08 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 12:08:51 -0500

Since Africa contains more nations that any other continent there are already nations within Africa that are economic leaders within the continent 2LT Private RallyPoint Member.
Certainly corruption has been a problem in many areas and radical Islam has created problems in the sahara and sub sahara region through to the Central African republic.
Africa is rich in mineral deposits and many Africans are much more well educated than those in earlier generation.
I am optimistic that nations in southern and west Africa as well as some in East Africa will rise to be economic leaders within their region and to wider range within the next 20 years. I don't think it makes sense to think about the entire continent becoming an economic leader. After all North America has the USA and Canada but also includes Mexico.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Dec 16 at 2015 12:39 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 12:39:39 -0500

Prosperity requires a lot more than "development". First and foremost it requires a stable political system. Sadly political stability is not a well-developed concept in most of Africa. It's taking root here and there, but not in the long term.