a story of two salesmen sent to conduct research on the market potential of shoes in Africa.

The first salesman briskly declared: “There is no potential here – nobody wears shoes.” But his colleague had an entirely different opinion: “There is massive potential here – nobody wears shoes.”

This humorous story, which illustrates how different people perceive issues under similar conditions, applies more than ever to Africa today. The second salesman saw opportunities and benefits in Africa rather than problems and disadvantages envisaged by his colleague.

Some investors still have stereotypical images of Africa etched in their minds like the first salesman, while others see untapped business opportunities on the continent and are moving in fast.

A new Africa has emerged from the ashes of the past and is gaining momentum. Many appear to have taken little notice of this silent revolution that is sweeping across Africa…