Africa Shows Strong Economic Resilience Amid Global Shocks, AfDB Reports

Africa has continued to demonstrate remarkable economic resilience despite ongoing global and regional headwinds, according to the 2026 Africa Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook (MEO) report released by the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) on 30 March 2026.

The report highlights that Africa outpaced the global average in 2025, with real GDP growth reaching 4.2%, up from 3.1% in 2024, comfortably exceeding the world average of 3.1%. Growth was broad-based, with 22 countries achieving more than 5% growth, and six countries surpassing 7%, supported by easing inflation, improved macroeconomic management, and favourable agricultural conditions.

Looking ahead, Africa’s GDP growth is projected to stabilise at 4.3% in 2026, rising to 4.5% in 2027. East Africa remains the fastest-growing region, recording 6.4% growth in 2025, driven by strong performances in Ethiopia (9.8%), Rwanda (7.5%), and Uganda (6.4%).

Other key highlights from the report include:

• GDP per capita growth rising from 0.9% in 2023 to 1.9% in 2025.
• Inflation falling to 13.6% in 2025, down from 21.8% in 2024.
• Foreign direct investment surging by more than 75% in 2024 to reach $97 billion.
• Remittance inflows recovering strongly to $104.6 billion in 2024, making them the largest source of external non-debt financing.

AfDB President Dr Sidi Ould Tah stressed that the continent faces a pivotal moment amid geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions. “Africa has held strong in previous shocks and has the capacity to bounce back, provided the right policy levers are applied,” he said, noting that the recent Middle East crisis could reduce growth by only 0.2 percentage points if it lasts beyond three months.

Prof Kevin Urama, AfDB Chief Economist, added that strong fiscal discipline, regional integration, and domestic reforms remain essential buffers against external shocks. An expert panel of ministers and IMF representatives discussed strategies to strengthen financial systems, mobilise development finance, and sustain domestic resource reforms.

The AfDB publishes the MEO report biannually to provide member countries, investors, and partners with rigorous, timely, and actionable economic analysis.