Long viewed as a bastion of stability in the Central African region, thanks in part to large hydrocarbon revenues that have helped it maintain one of the highest levels of per capita income in the region, Gabon has been able to leverage its diplomatic clout throughout sub-Saharan Africa. 

The Republic of Ghana has experienced two peaceful handovers of power in the two decades since it has returned to civilian, multiparty democracy and has gained a deserved reputation as a bastion of stability. However, in recent years, it has been the country’s economic performance in the headlines. 

Oil production retains its key role in the economy, however plans are under way to encourage diversification away from hydrocarbons towards an economy that is more knowledge based. The political climate has been characterised of late by a number of disputes, often resulting in either the resignation of the government or the dissolution of parliament, which has contributed to the slow progress of some projects. 

A leading cocoa producer and exporter of low-cost power, Côte d’Ivoire is one of the more economically diverse and mineral-rich countries in West Africa. The country is a member of ECOWAS and the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa, as well as party to several international trade agreements, which help improve macro stability. 

With a long-established track record as the continent’s largest financial platform and one of the world’s biggest mining producers, South Africa has significant economic clout in the region.