Africa is a land of opportunities. The continent is blessed with a bolstering youthful population, mineral resources, arable soil and favorable weather condition. It is strategically located as an investment frontier for global businesses seeking raw materials, talents and a consumer base.
However, to adequately maximize all of its potentials and become a fully industrialized continent, it needs more investors in the following sectors:
Oil & Gas
The main oil-producing countries in Africa are Nigeria, Angola, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Equatorial Guinea, Congo, Gabon and South Africa. These countries produce thousands of barrels of crude oil per day and the sector contributes a large percentage of total revenue. Investing in this sector will be profitable since these countries need refineries.
Agriculture
Africa can feed the world if the right seeds, technology, and smart labour is put in place. The Agro sector is worth over $300 billion and estimated to reach $1 trillion by 2030. Agriculture also accounts for 32% of the continent’s GDP according to the World Economic Forum.
Renewable Energy
Across the continent, only 10% of individuals have access to a stable power supply. With the amount of oil, gas, hydro and solar resources present, Africa has the potential to generate enough electricity for itself. Achieving reliable electricity supply will require investment in renewable energy to support the existing electrical grid, especially for the majority that suffer blackouts.
Technology
Africa has a budding tech ecosystem and this sector has attracted several investors from all over the world. A large number of indigenous tech talents work remotely for reputable global businesses and others are founding startups that focus on solving local needs. The youths are tech-savvy and are willing to try out innovative solutions, leaving you with several investment options.
Mining
Africa is literally “seating on gold”. The continent has the most abundant mineral resources in the world. The mineral industry contributes about 57% of Africa’s export earnings from hydrocarbon. Mineral exploration and production is on-demand on the continent. However, a larger percentage of the mineral resources are yet underground due to underdevelopment and under funding.
Tourism
Africa had the second-fastest-growing tourism region with a 5.6% growth in 2018. The continent has a lot of undiscovered sceneries that can attract tourists from all over the world. With the right publicity, cashing out is guaranteed.
Trade
Intra-African exports were 16.6% of the total exports in 2017. This figure is expected to reach $6.7 trillion in 2030, as a result of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) – the world’s largest free trade area. Also, given the fast-growing population and the willingness to try out new things, Africa serves as a profitable consumer market for fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, and innovation.
Housing/Infrastructure Development
Majority of Africans experience substandard living conditions with inadequate access to basic amenities, clean water and sanitation. World Bank’s statistics show that the number of Africans living in urban areas is projected to reach 50% by 2030. Hence, providing affordable housing and building infrastructure will yield long-term profits for investors.
The investment opportunities in Africa are infinite and will yield a high return on investment. This article only summaries some of the most profitable investment opportunities in Africa; there is more.
Written by Joy Ejere Uche
