Fostering Sustainable Growth: Africa’s Path to 2030 and Beyond

The Foresight Africa 2025-2030 report emphasizes the urgent need for Africa to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the approaching 2030 deadline, highlighting that Africa will account for nearly 40% of the world’s population by the year 2100. With a projected GDP growth of 4.2% in 2025, up from 3.1% in 2023, the report underscores the potential of Africa’s young and growing population as a significant demographic advantage. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is positioned as a pivotal initiative to boost intra-African trade, which reached $192 billion in 2023, reflecting a 7.2% growth year-over-year. However, the continent faces substantial challenges, including a $1.3 trillion annual financing gap needed to meet the SDGs. The report also notes that only 37% of the African population used the internet as of 2023, with affordability and access issues hampering digital inclusion. Additionally, the African Development Bank has highlighted the need for $400 billion by 2050 to improve electricity infrastructure, essential for achieving the SDGs. Overall, the report calls for bold policy action, regional cooperation, and investment in critical sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and women’s empowerment to drive sustainable growth and development across the continent.

Source: Policy Center for the New South