What AI means for growth and opportunity in Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa's economy remains resilient, growing from 4.1% in 2025 to 4.3% in 2026, driven by stronger domestic demand and investments related to energy transition and digital technologies. Despite challenges such as geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and a stable public debt at 57% of GDP, the World Bank report emphasizes that investing in an AI-ready economy can boost productivity, innovation, and structural transformation to improve living standards and reduce poverty. Growth is still not enough to significantly cut extreme poverty or generate enough jobs for the growing population, but reforms have improved economic resilience. The median inflation rate is projected to rise from 3.7% to 5.5% in 2026 due to global increases in fuel, fertilizer, and food prices.