Evolving Sectoral Structures in Africa

Abstract

Africa’s economies have long been dominated by primary industries, and the distribution of economic activity into secondary and tertiary industries has lagged behind that of most other regions. Beginning in the early 21st century, however, changes in the global environment and in African policymaking and business activity have been accelerating the pace of change in the sectoral distribution of Africa’s diverse economies. The opportunities provided by new information and communications technologies and the global shift to service industries have opened new possibilities for African countries. The chapter puts these recent developments into their historical context by tracing the changing sectoral dynamics in African economies. The discussion will focus on the policies and impact of colonial regimes and developmental efforts since the 1960s.