Business
Africa’s economies are projected to grow at 4.1% in 2025, outpacing the global average, according to the African Exponent. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) continues to drive integration, with intra-African trade expected to rise by 52% by 2035, potentially creating 30 million jobs. Gulf states have deepened their footprint, investing over $53 billion in infrastructure, mining, and agriculture projects across the continent in recent years The African Exponent.
Technology
African tech ecosystems are expanding rapidly, with fintech and e-commerce leading the charge. Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa remain hubs for venture capital inflows, while smaller markets such as Rwanda and Senegal are emerging as innovation centers. Governments are increasingly prioritizing digital infrastructure and AI adoption to enhance public services and attract investment.
Geopolitics
The continent is navigating a year of critical elections, with leadership transitions in several states shaping regional stability and governance trajectories. Analysts at CSIS note that these elections will test Africa’s democratic resilience and influence its global partnerships CSIS. Meanwhile, the African Union (AU) continues to push for stronger continental representation in global governance forums, including the G20 and UN Security Council.
Security
Persistent insecurity remains a challenge in parts of the Sahel, Horn of Africa, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Armed group activity and cross-border insurgencies continue to strain regional stability, prompting calls for greater AU-led security coordination. International partners, including the EU and U.S., are maintaining support for counterterrorism and peacekeeping operations, though long-term solutions remain elusive.
Human Rights
The 4th African Business and Human Rights Forum, held in Lusaka earlier this month, emphasized the need for responsible business conduct and stronger frameworks for remedy and reparations africa.unglobalcompact.org OHCHR. The forum highlighted Africa’s evolving regulatory environment, with governments aligning more closely with international human rights and environmental standards. Civil society groups continue to press for accountability in extractive industries and protection of indigenous communities.
Summary: Africa’s outlook is marked by robust economic growth, digital transformation, and geopolitical shifts, but also by security fragility and the ongoing struggle to embed human rights protections in governance and business. The continent’s trajectory will hinge on how effectively it balances growth with inclusivity, stability, and accountability.
Sources: UN Global Compact Africa africa.unglobalcompact.org; CSIS CSIS; UNDP United Nations Development Programme; OHCHR OHCHR; African Exponent The African Exponent.
