Latest articles from Africa

A different picture

July 7, 2009

Jacob Zuma, South Africa's new president
Some of the world's most powerful leaders and investors met in Cape Town last month for the World Economic Forum. They discussed the impact of the global downturn on Africa and how the continent could use it as an opportunity to build a platform for growth. Writer Charlie Corbett in Cape Town

London bound / UK operations

April 7, 2009

Despite a global downturn, low oil prices and the weakness of the naira, the lure of a London base is still of vital importance to Nigerian banks wanting to establish an international presence. Nick Kochan reports

A long friendship

April 7, 2009

As the Central Bank of Nigeria celebrates 50 years of existence, banker Anthony RP Williams, who has worked in Africa and Nigeria for almost the same length of time, reflects on the country's past and his experiences with the central bank.

Confidence in PPP financing prevails

April 7, 2009

Despite problems in credit markets, financiers appear committed to supporting the many improvements required in Nigeria's infrastructure sector, write Kevin Godier and Jon Marks.

Delta interest remains strong

April 7, 2009

Headlines on the exploits of Niger Delta militants often drown out positive news from the industry, where major companies will bring a number of big new oil and gas schemes on stream in the next few years, writes Jon Marks.

To bail or not to bail?

April 7, 2009

The Nigerian government is coming under increasing pressure to bail out the country's ailing bank sector, but many claim that the banks are resilient enough to survive the crisis without state support, which could do more harm than good. Charlie Corbett reports from Lagos.

Reasons to be cheerful

April 7, 2009

A collapsed stock market and a plummeting oil price would normally be good reason for investors to steer clear of Nigeria. But the country is weathering the financial storm and its reformed bank sector, while unsteady, looks set to survive the crisis intact. Charlie Corbett reports from Lagos.

Ezra Suruma

April 7, 2009

Uganda's government is pinning its hopes on an expansion in the agriculture sector, a boost in exports to its neighbours and a take-off in infrastructure projects as it attempts to avoid the worst effects of the global downturn, says the country's finance minister. Writer Peter Guest

Ahmed El houssieny

March 10, 2009

The managing director of Cairo based Citadel Capital talks to The Banker about opportunities in the region and the impact of the economic crisis on Egypt’s financial sector. Writer Charlie Corbett.

Egypt faces the acid test

March 10, 2009

Extensive reform means Egypt’s banks are better placed to face global economic turmoil than ever before, but the fragile, export-driven economy will be hit hard and the bank sector is not immune to the consequences. Writer Charlie Corbett in Cairo.