In Africa’s Business Revolution, Acha Leke, Mutsa Chironga, and Georges Desvaux point out that the African continent will account for one-fifth of humanity by 2025 and will see its population double by the middle of this century.  That will make it one of the only regions on earth with an expanding labor force and expanding group of customers.

What should be cornerstone practices? They suggest four:

1. Take a long-term view and ride out short-term volatility. (Pages 135-139)

2. Diversify by building a balanced portfolio across countries or sectors. (139-144)

3. Integrate up and down your value chain. (144-147)

4. Understand local context and claim a place at the table with governments. (147-154)

All of the most successful businesses on the continent share one characteristic: “a sober view of Africa’s challenges and a mindset that allows them to work around them — and see the business opportunities buried in them.”

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