Africa Faces Mounting Risks Just as Growth Gains Take Hold

Sub-Saharan Africa recorded its fastest growth in 10 years, reaching 4.5% in 2025, driven by politically difficult reforms and improved fiscal balance. However, the war in the Middle East has led to rising global commodity prices, threatening to slow growth to 4.3% in 2026. Oil-importing countries, many of which are fragile, face worsening trade balances and rising living costs.