African Economic Outlook 2013. Special Thematic Edition: Structural transformation and natural resources

This complementary edition to the AEO 2013 gathers the complete AEO analysis on structural transformation and natural resources by combining the thematic chapter and the thematic sections of all 53 country notes into one single document. It thus provides a unique overview of how each African country uses its natural resources to support the structural transformation of their economy. The report projects that Africa’s economy will grow by 4.8 per cent in 2013 and 5.3 per cent in 2014.

In the special focus on ‘Structural Transformation and Natural Resources,’ the report recommends that, to direct the benefits of natural resource use to structural transformation, African countries should, inter alia: create the right conditions for a transformation, including through attention to infrastructure, education and the creation of larger and more competitive markets; focus on the conditions required for natural resource sectors to thrive; ensure that proceeds from natural resources and extractive industries are invested strategically and that a fair share accrues to society; and increase agricultural productivity and enable economic linkages between the natural resource sector and the economy as a whole

Keywordsstructural transformation, natural resources, case studies, country reports