The Rise of Private Equity in Africa

Martin Arnold, Financial Times | July 3, 2008

Though Africa still accounts for only a fraction of the global private equity market, the spread of stable democracy and rapid economic evolution make it increasingly attractive for US and European investors. ++ Private capital flow into sub-Saharan Africa increased fourfold since 2000, a trend reflected by Kingdom Zephyr’s recent decision to put $325m into a pan-African buy-out fund. ++ Companies realize consumer patterns in Africa are changing: rising middle class, spread of entertainment and internet make it a more noteworthy area.