Agility Africa CEO on Africa's risk perception post-COVID-19

Africa has long been perceived as a risky place to do business, but the CEO of Agility Africa, Geoffrey White, believes that in a post-COVID-19 world, this perception might change. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa's Esther Awoniyi, White discussed the continent's potential for economic growth despite the ongoing pandemic. He highlighted key positive macro trends that are emerging across Africa post-COVID-19, signaling opportunities for investors. One significant trend is the impact of the continental free trade zone, which has the potential to create a 1.3 billion person market and drive economic growth. White emphasized the importance of investing in Africa, especially as the risk analysis between developed markets and emerging markets becomes closer in the wake of the pandemic. He outlined several key sectors that are set to experience accelerated growth, including local manufacturing, e-commerce, and e-commerce fulfillment. These trends, combined with Africa's young population and potential as a manufacturing hub, position the continent favorably in the medium term. Despite rising debt levels in key African economies like Nigeria and South Africa, White is optimistic about the role of private sector initiatives in driving investment and infrastructure development. He believes that increasing private sector investments will help fill the infrastructure deficit in Africa and create a more attractive environment for investors. White also discussed the importance of adopting elements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in manufacturing to enhance competitiveness globally. By leveraging technology and scaling production, African manufacturers can access larger markets and become more competitive on a global scale. Additionally, White touched on the energy sector in Africa, highlighting the potential for LNG production in countries like Mozambique and the shift towards cleaner energy sources. He emphasized the window of opportunity for Africa to take advantage of new investments in the energy sector, particularly in LNG production, as the world transitions away from fossil fuels. Overall, White's insights shed light on Africa's evolving economic landscape and the potential for growth and investment in the region post-COVID-19.