All Countries and All Sectors

International agencies and local officials are warning that Brunei Darussalam must remain firmly focused on diversifying its economy away from a declining energy sector and on improving its human capital if it is to achieve sustainable growth in the medium term.

An unusually long running strike at South Africa’s platinum mines has finally come to an end, and while the effects of the five-month action will likely be felt by the industry for years to come as it tries to recoup losses, it may have helped potentially expand the scope of smaller mining firms in the sector.

The first made-in-Nigeria passenger cars for decades rolled off factory lots in Lagos State in June, marking what authorities hope is the beginning of a new era for automotive assembly in the country. The move also raises hopes among some of the world’s key automakers that Nigeria can become a bigger source of customers as well as a supplier for Africa.

Setting a new record for a maiden sovereign issuance in Africa, Kenya successfully tapped the Eurobond markets for the first time in June, selling $2bn worth at better-than-expected rates.

Changes to Mongolia’s mining legislation will open up vast new tracts of land for exploration and pave the way for new licence issuances. This should help restore the confidence of foreign investors made wary by government intervention in the sector.

Efforts to strengthen Bahrain’s digital economy will begin in earnest next year when the kingdom launches a major upgrade of its broadband internet infrastructure.