A new report from Strategy Management Partners reveals that UK business leaders are increasingly looking to Africa as a key market for long-term growth, driven by structural reforms, demographic momentum, and rapid digital transformation across the continent.
The research finds that 50% of UK businesses surveyed are already operating in Africa and planning further expansion. A further 28% are exploring opportunities but remain uncertain about how best to enter. The findings suggest a significant shift in how Africa is viewed – from a high-risk proposition to a strategically important growth market.
The primary drivers of interest among business leaders include Africa’s growing consumer markets (61%), accelerating tech adoption (61%), and its youthful, digitally connected population (50%). Philanthropic motivations were cited by just 20% of respondents, indicating that UK businesses are primarily focused on Africa’s long-term economic potential rather than short-term gains or charitable objectives.
However, despite rising optimism, significant operational and policy challenges remain. The top four concerns cited by UK business leaders were: political and country risk (68%); safety and security issues (66.4%); regulatory barriers and tariffs (60.4%); and the complexity of cross-border transactions (60%). Addressing these issues will be crucial to unlocking Africa’s full potential for UK investment.
The research also highlights sector-specific opportunities aligned with Africa’s strengths, including oil and gas, renewable energy, technology, agriculture and mineral reserves. Industries that are able to bridge infrastructure gaps and support the continent’s rapid urbanisation, growing middle class, and demand for digital solutions are especially well-positioned. However, the report cautions that success will depend on long-term commitment, local partnerships, and investment in understanding diverse regulatory environments.
“Africa presents one of the most promising growth opportunities of the next decade and is now firmly on the radar of UK businesses. Business leaders are increasingly seeing Africa as a long-term strategic priority,” says Muibat Ijaiya, Partner at Strategy Management Partners. “But realising that potential depends on both private sector adaptability and government investment in enabling conditions — from infrastructure and talent access to regulatory reform.”
