The African Development Bank has said Africa continues to demonstrate strong economic resilience, disclosing that 12 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies are located on the continent.
The AfDB president made the remarks during the launch of the 2026 African Economic Outlook at the ongoing Annual Meetings of the bank in Brazzaville, where new projections highlighted Africa’s continued position as one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
According to the 2026 African Economic Outlook, Africa’s real GDP growth is projected to moderate slightly to about 4.2 per cent in 2026, from an estimated 4.4 per cent in 2025, before rising again to 4.4 per cent in 2027.
The report attributed the performance to improved macroeconomic management, stronger agricultural output, and easing inflationary pressures in several economies, even as global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on growth.
It also noted that 22 African economies recorded growth rates above 5 per cent in 2025, reinforcing the continent’s position as a key global growth frontier.
Foreign direct investment into Africa rebounded strongly in 2024, rising sharply to about $97 billion, while remittance inflows also increased significantly, making them one of the continent’s largest external financing sources.
Inflation, according to the report, has begun to ease across the continent, falling from higher levels recorded in 2024 to an estimated average of 13.6 per cent in 2025, though risks from energy and import costs remain.
Speaking at the launch, the AfDB president said Africa’s performance reflects “growing economic dynamism in a challenging global environment,” noting that GDP per capita growth has also improved in recent years.
He stressed that despite the positive indicators, structural challenges remain, including financing gaps, weak infrastructure, and vulnerability to external shocks.
The AfDB also warned that Africa continues to face a significant development financing gap, calling for deeper reforms to mobilize domestic resources and attract long-term investment into productive sectors.
The bank urged African governments to strengthen financial systems, expand capital markets, and reduce dependence on external aid by leveraging internal savings, pension funds, and sovereign wealth assets.
The AfDB president further called for greater investment in human capital and infrastructure as key drivers for sustaining long-term growth across the continent.
