African
Opportunities
Investing in development
BY BRONWYN CORBETT
To those who have never visited, the African continent is usually viewed as one plagued by famine, poverty, and crime. Not to mention lions roaming the streets. Speak to a tourist and they’ ll most probably tell you about the warmth and friendliness of the people, the spectacular sunrise, and diverse natural beauty.
Ask an African and be prepared to hear at least 54 different perspectives ‒ each distinctly influenced by the 54 diverse nations that call the continent home. Each of these nations is at some stage of the process of figuring out how democracy in Africa is supposed to work. How do we balance the tensions between the haves and the have nots, between the countless cultures, customs, and religions? How do we find a happy medium between tradition and modernisation?
Africa at a glance Most countries on the continent only gained independence from the 1960’ s onwards. That’ s less than 60 years ago. And this is the first perspective that’ s lost when one views the continent through“ first world” eyes: it’ s not western. It’ s African. And Africa is not a country – it has countless facets and overlays forged by its tumultuous history.
Despite its splendour and resources, Africa remains a harsh continent. But from adversity, ingenuity is born. In a complex and dynamic environment, opportunity abounds for those with the insight and tenacity to spot and pursue prospects.
But what does this mean for real estate investment and property development on the continent? It means considering 54 different investment jurisdictions,
54 AUGUST 2017 SA Real Estate Investor www. reimag. co. za