The Next Africa: An Emerging Continent Becomes a Global Powerhouse Paperback – July 21, 2015

The Next Africa: An Emerging Continent Becomes A Global PowerAuthors: Jake Bright & Aubrey HrubyBy: Irwin Barkan August-2016In April 2014 Nigeria quietly passed South Africa as the largest economy in Africa, its GDP registering at $510 Billion – a staggering increase of 1,600% from its 1990 GDP of $31 Billion. The country also proudly announced the completion of a historic $1 Billion bond placement with J.P. Morgan to global investors. Then the primary facilitator of the bond issuance – Lamido Sanusi, the respected governor of its Central Bank – was fired by Nigeria’s President, Goodluck Jonathan, after he exposed a $20 Billion fraud involving state oil revenues being perpetrated by the President’s associates.So goes one of the world’s most dynamic economies; always seemingly moving two steps forward and one step backward. And since reaching these economic milestones in 2014, the Nigerian economy has been beset by plummeting oil prices, currency devaluation, energy shortages and the continuing Boko Haram insurgency – resulting in its slowest economic growth in decades.Despite this series of developments and the resulting slowdown, Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the fastest growing regions in the world. This is reflected its foreign direct investment (FDI) levels in 2015, where FDI project numbers increased by 7% and despite all of this tumult Nigeria successfully transitioned to a new elected government affirming its commitment to democratic traditions.In all these ways Nigeria reflects the enormous potential of Sub-Saharan Africa which is being realized in fits and starts, not unlike any region moving into second-world status. However, after spending the last five years traveling throughout Nigeria, Ghana and many other regions of the continent while developing shopping center and mixed-use projects I have no doubt that the “African Century” will not be denied despite all the obstacles that lie in its way.In their new book “The Next Africa: An Emerging Continent Becomes A Global Power”, authors Jake Bright and Aubrey Hruby have provided a succinct and readable analysis of where Nigeria and the other fifty-plus countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are headed. It’s a must-read for anyone wants to know the inevitable future of Africa and its dramatic impact on the globe in the next 50 years.Written with personality and laid-out in well-organized chapters that delineate the major trends in demography, consumerism, economic growth and artistic contribution occurring in the continent; Jake and Aubrey provide the compelling numbers and factors along with an interesting set of personal stories about the people they have met during their extensive travels. The easy to follow narrative with its strong factual support makes this an ideal read for investors and other readers interested in how Africa will become an increasingly important global story over the next few decades. The book ends with insightful advice on how anyone can take part in this historic shift of people and wealth.If you want to know “Why Africa?”, and you should…read The Next Africa: An Emerging Continent Becomes A Global Power.

I was born in West Africa and migrated to the US during middle school. Although I've significantly enjoyed the quality of life that comes from living in the US, I've always known I would return back to West Africa and work in some capacity there.Since moving to the US, I was fortunate enough to graduate and transition in various financial roles. Still, more than ever, I am determined to return and focus on financial opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa. I give all this background to say that this book not only has been instrumental in helping me understand the culture, geography, and growth of the nation but it also has been incredibly effective in destroying the biases I had from my childhood in Nigeria.The book warrants a read to understand the past of Sub-Saharan Africa. It succinctly answers the question "what on earth happened to this continent that is so rich with resources" and "where could it go from here" (side note: I had a fun time testing my dad about the major events and what his thoughts were about said events at the time).Yet, the reason why this book has a special place on my shelf is how much it's aided me in my professional career (and it's only been a few months since I've read it!). I've been able to communicate with senior executives in a range of industries by bringing up key topics, discussions, and arguments made in this book. I have a better understanding of the business landscape, the multi-national players, and the key risks. I'm able to make informed opinions and have a more balanced view on the continent (although I'm admittedly a bit more cautious vs. the authors).In addition, I enjoyed the frameworks and foundation the authors teach in regards to conducting business in the area. I appreciated the anecdotes from their personal experiences as it helped bridge the gap between theory and practical experiences.I'm headed back to West Africa this year and I'm even more excited to witness the innovations and opportunities on the continent. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is even just somewhat curious about Sub-Saharan Africa (had to give my dad my copy just to challenge his preconceived notions).

Quite a detailed and well researched book about the various developments on the African continent.

As an African business professional, I would say that the two authors, Jake Bright and Aubrey Hruby did justice in giving a true narrative of the continents business progress and its position on the global economy.Although the story gives a positive view, the authors also shade light and gave advice in navigating possible sporadic challenges. All this backed by research evidence and clear details.Africa is not a country. It is a continent with many countries. Hence the business dynamics of the African varies across the continent.The pessimistic view of the continent arises mainly from lack of detailed information, they say. This book provides the information and clears the perceived dark cloud.I recommend this book to anyone who is investing or what to invest in Africa and make an impact on the continent.Well done Jake and Aubrey.