How Sub-Saharan Africa Is Evolving Into A Global Economic Powerhouse

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for less than a 4 percent GDP today.

But as countries across the region begin to see growth accelerate, Citi estimates it could more than double its share of the world's economy.

Growth has been fueled by commodities.

But that's rapidly changing as wealth per capita increases and new industries develop.

Citi's David Cowan recently published a report titled Sub-Saharan Africa: The Route to Transformative Growth.  We drew on the report to show how growth in the sub-Saharan region has evolved and how crucial China has become to the region.

Thanks to Citi for giving us permission to feature their charts.

Growth in sub-Saharan Africa has accelerated since 2000. And the potential for further growth is enormous given its positive demographics and natural resources.

Already, SSA countries are seeing strengthening per capita GDP growth as international trade with the region picks up.

Oil and other commodities have played a significant role in that growth — with oil exporters outstripping neighboring countries.

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