World Bank Expects Modest Acceleration of Economic Growth in Africa

The World Bank forecasts a modest acceleration of economic growth in Sub-Saharan African countries this year, despite challenges related to the conflict in Iran. In its semi-annual Africa Economic Update published on Tuesday, the lender predicts a growth of 4.3% in 2026 compared to 4.1% last year. This is 0.3 percentage points higher than the April forecast. “Despite the challenging global environment, economic activity in Sub-Saharan African countries continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience,” said Andrew Dabalen, the chief economist for the Africa region. “These results reflect years of reforms and improved economic governance.”

The forecasts have been upgraded for nearly three-quarters of the countries in the region, including Angola, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Zambia. Rising oil prices are hitting fuel-importing countries hard but are benefiting oil exporters, including those in Africa. The same applies to high raw material prices for major copper producers like Zambia.

However, risks remain skewed to the downside. Higher fuel and fertilizer prices driven by the conflict in the Middle East are pushing median inflation upward. The bank expects it to rise to 5.5% this year from 3.7% in 2025. “As development aid declines, countries are facing increasing pressure to mobilize domestic resources, deepen local capital markets, and ensure more sustainable financing,” the report states.