These are certainly challenging times. And in these challenging times, in Africa, the private sector is doing interesting things.

The nine stories in this second edition of IFC Insights Africa, published for the 2023 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, showcase the innovative ways African businesses—both large and small—are addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges, and improving lives and creating jobs while doing it.

We share stories about a mobile money boom in Madagascar; Africa’s growing capacity for vaccine production; the rise of start-ups in the Sahel; and Kenyan Mary .Wanja Thuo, a successful small business owner who is determined to support other women entrepreneurs.

These stories highlight not only the strong progress being made across multiple sectors and countries, but also the ripe opportunities in Africa that are open to investors and others alike.

At difficult times like these, when the shockwaves of multiple crises are shaking economies worldwide, the private sector is proving its resilience and resourcefulness, delivering the goods and services we all rely on.

In Africa, a dynamic private sector is helping provide infrastructure, health services, digital solutions, and foodstuffs.

With the right support, Africa’s champions can do even more.

Sergio Pimenta

IFC Vice President for Africa