As western markets continue to stall, Africa is shaping up to be the investment destination of many companies. The beautiful continent of Africa has one of the world’s largest number of unexplored resources. Having traveled to a few African countries such as South Africa, Botswana and having been born and raised in Zimbabwe, I can attest to the thriving nature of businesses in these regions.

 

Africa has made great strides since colonial times. Many African countries including South Africa;  Zimbabwe; Kenya; Nigeria; and Ghana, have easier access to regional and global markets, well developed infrastructure and government incentives for investors than they have ever had before. These features make African countries such as these ripe for business and investment.

 

The World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index ranks global economies based on the ease with which one can do business with a particular countries economy. These economies are ranked on a scale of 1 – 185. The higher a country, continent or region ranks on the index the more conducive the region is to hosting a successful business operation. Mauritius, the top ranked African region on the list, is ranked 19 out of 185.

 

For those interested in doing business in Africa there is U.S. government assistance. Here are some business development resources offered by the U.S. Government:

 

USAID: The Unites States Agency for International Development is part of the United States Government’s effort to expand trade and investment partnerships with Africa.

AGOA: The African Growth and Opportunity Act of 2000 is a road map for how the United States and Africa can tap the power of markets to improve the lives of their citizens. Matchmaker programs have been created for trade with 38 eligible countries.

MAFM: Modern Africa Fund Managers is a U.S.-based company that combines its financial expertise and an understanding of African markets to do business in Africa. The fund “co-invests” with American companies looking to enter the African market if these companies are involved in the following sectors telecommunications & Information Technologies, Agribusiness & Manufacturing and Financial Services.

The U.S. Department of Commerce: The U.S. Department of Commerce provides up to date market research on West and Central Africa. The USDC will also provide “matching services” which pair the most qualified buyers and/or partner firms with a company based on a company’s needs.

 

So how do you as a Baruch student become better acquainted with Africa while here at Baruch? It is vital to be immersed in intercultural awareness activities to gain basic knowledge about the continent. Listed are a few resources:

 

• Study Abroad: There are Study Abroad opportunities offered by CUNY to several African countries including South Africa, Morocco and Senegal. Click here for more information pertaining to Study Abroad in Africa.

 

• Student Organization: The Africa Student Association is an organization on campus that provides students with and informed perspective of Africa. Click here for more information.

 

• Food: Enjoy African Cuisine right here in New York! One of my all time favorite places to go for African cuisine is located in Fort Greene Brooklyn. The restaurant is called Madiba’s ( Nelson Mandela’s nickname).  My favorite thing to have there is the Bushman Breakfast and the Pap with Boerewors Sausage. Another cool spot is “Braai” located in Hells Kitchen.

 

• Art: Click here to explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s vast collection of African pieces.

• Music: Click here to listen to some African beats as well as to see a schedule of upcoming performances by African artists in New York City!