ZAMBIA 8TH MOST ATTRACTIVE ECONOMY-REPORT

ZAMBIA has been ranked the eighth most attractive economy for investment inflow in Africa for 2017, according to the 2018 Africa Investment Index released by the Quantum Global Research Lab.

Quantum Global Research Lab is an independent research arm based in Switzerland.

Despite not making in it in the top five of the best investment countries for 2017, Zambia managed to find itself in the best eighth category.

Countries in the top ten include Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Botswana, Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Ethiopia, Zambia, Kenya and Senegal.

Those in the worst category were Central African Republic, Liberia, Somalia, Eritrea, Equatorial Guinea, Gambia, Sierra Leon, Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe and Zimbabwe.

Morocco ranked first as the most attractive economy for investments flowing into the African continent in 2017 with Egypt, Algeria, Botswana and Cote d’Ivoire being amongst top five investment destinations.

According to the survey, Morocco ranks first on the Index based on its increasing solid economic growth, strategic geographic positioning, increased foreign direct investment, external debt levels, social capital fac- tors and overall favourable business environment.

Commenting on the development, Quantum Global Research Lab managing director, Mthuli Ncube, said Morocco had been consistent in attracting an inward flow of foreign capital, specifically in banking, tourism and energy sectors and through the development of industry

“In spite of the improvements to oil production and prices, African economies are turning their attention towards diversification to stimulate industrial development, and to attract investments in non-oil strategic sectors,” Prof. Ncube said.