I saw a very interesting presentation recently about investing in Africa. According to the CFA Institute, ‘Africa’s remarkable economic growth during the past decade was based on sustainable drivers of performance, including a transformation in leadership and abundant natural resources. Opportunities to profit exist in infrastructure and robust demand for consumer goods and services from a growing middle class. Challenges to investing in Africa remain, but investors who can overcome the challenges will find superior investment prospects.’

Also, according to the World Economic Forum, ‘the conversation about Africa is shifting from one of “deficits” and “gaps” to one about opportunities, prospects, ventures and creativity. That’s not news to companies that have paid close attention to the continent and invested there. The fast-growing youth population, the urbanization expected to drive over 50% of Africans to cities by 2050, and Africa’s formalizing economy are all well known. These trends and other developments have driven a half century or more of growth in Africa, and will continue to do so.’

Unfortunately for me, I’m not really in a position to invest anything meaningful in a whole continent. However, if I were in a position to invest, I think I could do a lot worse than invests in Bollore Transport and Logistics. According to their website, they’re one of the world top 10 leading transport and international logistics company with presence in 105 countries around the world including a large presence in Africa. Their business activities – including port, rail, transport and logistics and storage and distribution of petroleum products – have come together to be part of the single brand, Bolloré Transport & Logistics. Apparently, this grouping will enable them to offer their clients a global supply chain management and network based on the expertise of over 36,000 employees

Already the first port infrastructure operator in Africa, they appear to be heading from strength to strength