Africa Reader 2018: A continent full of potential

Africa is transforming itself. The continent stands ready to seize the opportunities arising from its young population, new technologies, new trade agreements and potential for productivity gains. However, the region needs a lot of help to fight deteriorating infrastructure, climate change, extreme weather events, social and political strife, persistent poverty, and the rising numbers of people leaving their homes to escape conflict or seek a better life.The European Investment Bank has been active in Africa for more than half a century, carrying out thousands of complex projects in all corners of the continent. We are concentrating even more on activities that create jobs and growth. We also are working hard on sustainable urbanisation, digital connectivity and gender equality.