Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/193235 
Authors: 
Year of Publication: 
2018
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 11941
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
In this paper I argue that the manufacturing sector still has an important role to play in Africa's development. Despite failing to industrialize in the past, there may be a new window of opportunity. This is due to the convergence of what has been called 'brilliant' new technologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and a resurgence of start-up entrepreneurship. In this light I (i) show why manufacturing is vital for African economies, (ii) critically analyse the nature and impact, both in terms of opportunities and risks, of the new technologies associated with the 4IR for Africa; (iii) describe the resurgence of technological start-up entrepreneurship in Africa and (iv) call for policy support in the form of complimentary investments and regulations to allow entrepreneurs to utilize opportunities and to minimize threats. In short, a new narrative for African manufacturing is possible.
Subjects: 
technology
industry 4.0
entrepreneurship
development
Africa
JEL: 
O33
O14
O55
L52
L26
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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