Early 2000, Africa’s growth, contributed to the narrative of a “Rising Africa.” But, in the following years, the slowdown of growth across Sub-Saharan Africa has led many to question the “Rising Africa” narrative — while others are pronouncing it dead. However, Africa presents emerging opportunities almost every day to perpetuate its growth making Africa the world’s fastest-growing continent. It is with this in mind I discuss these emerging facts about Africa that contribute to Africa’s growth.
Ever growing population.
The African Development Bank Group (AFDB) proposed that Africa’s life expectancy will be at its pinnacle by 2060, even though this depends on geographical area. High fertility rates and the rising child mortality rates deduce that by 2050, 40% of all children will be under-five years, and more than a third of all children under 18 will be African. The Africa continent will account for (54%) of the world’s population increase in the coming years. The increase in the working population contributes to higher levels of productivity and GDP growth. The sign is the increased number of women in the parliamentary seats. In Rwanda, for instance, specifically the lower house, women hold 64%, have the uppermost proportion of women parliamentarians globally. Africa is investing mostly in women through many forms of empowerment. They include finance and education, and this contributes positively to the growth of Africa.
Increased Use of Technology and innovations.
The domain of technology has drought following in Africa. Various technology brands, especially mobile phones, are getting more popular all over Africa, i.e., Samsung, Techno, iPhone, etc. The International Telecommunication Union accounts for that by 2015, mobile phone use and subscription were very high. Most African households have mobile phones and computers in use daily with increased internet use. Advancements in technology result in improved quality and quantity in terms of productivity and increased inclusion.
Agriculture and environment conservation
Most African countries are deliberately incorporating environmental responsive policies and initiatives in their governments, companies, and organizations. African leadership has taken up the duty of easing climate change like drought, global warming under sustainable Development Goals and vision 2030 for countries like Kenya. These environmental improvements include reducing pollution, resource management, incorporation of policies that prevent natural resource exploitation. The development of green farming and agriculture has been rising ever since.
Improved health.
Africa’s health has drastically been improving over the years. Initiatives that have taken by different leaderships to improve the level of health in their specific countries. In Kenya, for instance, introducing free maternity in June 2013 for all pregnant women has led to an increase in life expectancy and reduction of infant mortality rates in most regions. Improvements in cancer screening devices in most parts of Africa that offer free cervical and breast cancer screening in the various areas of Africa. Improved health in Africa has led to an increase in GDP because of more labor, therefore, increased productivity.
Political and Financial change.
Yes, the continents emerging middle class are at the forefront of its economic evolution. Africa has continued to be the second growing economy after Asia, with some of its countries being identified as the world’s fastest rising economy. Africa continues to be an outstanding investment opportunity to the outside world. Many African countries are closing the infrastructure gap by building and supplying energy to the most rural regions. States are also strengthening their political domain. Previously, African elections have been known to be “stolen,” followed by post-election violence. However, initiatives such as the Nigeria 2015 elections #NigeriaDecides handle helped ensure transparency; therefore, power was assigned peacefully, thus showing progress.
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