Across parts of Africa, governments and entrepreneurs are turning to new sectors to create jobs, strengthen local economies and reduce dependence on traditional sources of income.
Algeria Looks Beyond Oil And Gas
Algeria is stepping up efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas, with agriculture, manufacturing, services and mining among the sectors being targeted.
Non-hydrocarbon activity has remained relatively strong, but the country still faces major fiscal pressure. The IMF says Algeria’s budget deficit reached 10.5% of GDP in 2025, while public debt rose to about 52% of GDP.
The challenge is to grow private investment and non-energy exports while reducing the economy’s exposure to fluctuations in oil and gas revenues.
Solar Power Becomes Essential In Sudan
In Sudan, solar energy is becoming an increasingly important source of electricity as the war continues to damage the national power network.
In Khartoum and Omdurman, households and businesses that can afford solar systems are turning to them to cope with lengthy power cuts. However, high equipment costs and a weakened currency make the technology inaccessible to many families.
The electricity crisis is also affecting hospitals, schools, pharmacies and businesses, highlighting the growing importance of affordable alternative energy.
Food Festivals Create Opportunities In DR Congo
In Kinshasa, food festivals are giving young entrepreneurs a chance to promote their businesses, attract customers and build new connections.
The Congo Food Week has become one of these platforms, bringing local food businesses and consumers together while supporting entrepreneurship in the restaurant and agri-food sectors. The festival also has a humanitarian focus, with proceeds supporting vulnerable communities.
For young founders, these events are becoming more than food showcases — they are opportunities to test ideas, build customer bases and grow small businesses.
Main Image: Further Africa
