Mauritius scores high marks in the DHL Global Connectedness Index

In the latest DHL Global Connectedness Index report, several African countries have emerged as key players in driving economic growth through enhanced connectivity and infrastructure development. Randy, a representative from DHL, highlighted some key findings from the report during a recent CNBC Africa interview. One of the standout performers this year was Mozambique, which surprised many with its significant improvement in connectedness. The country's transparency around international loans and the discovery of a massive gas reserve have made it an attractive destination for investment, showcasing the impact of strategic investments in critical sectors. On the other hand, Mauritius continues to excel in both ease of doing business and logistics, underscoring the importance of long-term planning and political support in driving sustained growth. The Africa Free Trade Area, spearheaded by President Bocage of the African Union, also holds immense potential to boost intra-Africa trade and drive economic integration. However, challenges remain in ratifying the agreement and improving regional infrastructure to facilitate seamless trade flows. The report also draws attention to the disparity between developed and emerging markets, with a call to diversify African economies and promote cross-border trade among SMEs to unlock untapped growth potential. Infrastructural development remains a key driver of economic progress, often spurred by significant resource discoveries in rural areas. While this trend has its challenges, leveraging such discoveries to drive investment in critical infrastructure is crucial to ensuring sustainable development across the continent.