My gut tells me that on average, Africans feel a lot more optimistic - systems of governance have improved, along with the opportunities to improve one's livelihood. |
Oil will continue to be the backbone due to its sheer scale plus the rate of expansion envisaged. I'm not sure if this is enough evidence of diversification or conversely is it just evidence of the benefits of a booming oil sector. |
The key is that all government regulations that impact on the sector be streamlined to ensure they are not too onerous. |
We know that income disparities are pretty wide, rural households still have to eke out a living and there is not enough trickle-down from prosperous areas. The key is improving agriculture -- there have been draughts and lack of infrastructure makes it difficult for people to market their crops. But I think in many respects Africans are eternal optimists -- AIDS, hunger and lack of long-term opportunities seem to stand in contrast to the poll. |