And we're back. This week we look at how fruit exports are quietly driving industrialization, why AI's biggest challenge is infrastructure, and whether a new wave of megaprojects can reshape the continent. There's also an unexpected Morocco theme running through this edition. As I head there next week, the country seems to be everywhere, from geopolitics and energy to surfing. 

Africa's fruit boom is going orange, literally. South Africa is now the world's largest citrus exporter, while Zimbabwe's blueberry industry has exploded, proving high-value agriculture can power industrial growth.

By the numbers:

Zoom in: These aren't traditional farms. They're high-tech export businesses built around cold chains, precision growing and food processing, creating jobs well beyond the farm gate.

Bottom line: It’s quite clear to us all that manufacturing has struggled across much of Africa. Modern agriculture, oranges included, may be quietly delivering the industrialization factories never did.

Worth a read: The IMF's new report, Unlocking the Potential: AI in Sub-Saharan Africa, is packed with thoughtful analysis on AI readiness, digital infrastructure and the continent's adoption gap. According to the report and no surprise, Africa's biggest AI challenge is infrastructure. The IMF says stronger electricity, internet access and digital skills could unlock AI across agriculture, health care, education and finance, turning it into a meaningful driver of growth.

By the numbers:

Bottom line: The technology is ready. The infrastructure isn't. Countries that invest now in power, broadband and local AI talent will be best positioned to benefit, while those that don't risk turning today's digital divide into tomorrow's AI divide.

And because I couldn't resist, I've included one more of the report's standout graphics below, built with GSMA data we’ve covered before.

The Economist argues Africa's era of billion-dollar infrastructure projects is back. From Ethiopia's dam and airport to the Lobito Corridor and Nigeria's refinery, governments and investors are betting that large-scale infrastructure can unlock growth, improve trade and strengthen energy security. 

By the numbers:

Zoom in: Today's megaprojects are increasingly backed by private capital and geopolitical competition. The U.S., EU and China are all financing strategic infrastructure, while successful projects like Dangote's refinery are giving investors more confidence to fund the next wave.

Bottom line: Africa's infrastructure gap remains one of its biggest barriers to growth. If this new generation of megaprojects is executed well, it could reshape trade, manufacturing and regional integration for decades.

P.S. Also relevant, Morocco is deepening its strategic ambitions, pursuing U.S. financing for a $26B Nigeria-Europe gas pipeline and advancing a major green ammonia project in Western Sahara, underscoring its push to become a regional energy and trade hub (Bloomberg). 

The latest World Bank income map is a reminder of both Africa's challenge and its opportunity. While China has climbed from low-income to upper-middle income in a generation, most of the world's low-income economies are still in sub-Saharan Africa.

By the numbers:

Thankfully, income classifications aren't permanent and there are some bright spots on the continent. Read more: Visual Capitalist.

Many of you have probably seen the headlines about the mass migration into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. But a Financial Times piece this week documents the geopolitics behind it. The FT argues Morocco has strengthened its hand through its role in managing migration, its position on Western Sahara and its growing ties with both Europe and the Trump administration.

Zoom in: Spain depends on Morocco to help manage migration into Europe, giving Rabat significant influence during diplomatic disputes. The latest Ceuta crisis is the clearest reminder yet that geography, trade and migration can translate into real political power.

My Moroccan colleague recently spent time surfing with her family in Taghazout, Morocco, so this article in FT about the nearby village of Tamraght only added to my wanderlust. Morocco's Atlantic coast has quietly become one of the world's best-value surf destinations. Once a sleepy fishing village, Tamraght is drawing surfers, digital nomads and travelers looking for a slower, more affordable alternative to Europe's crowded beaches. Charlotte Guckian’s FT Postcard from Morocco is a fun little read. 

Zoom in: Surf camps now line the village, with lessons starting around $20. Beginners can surf year-round, while experienced surfers arrive for the bigger winter swells. Rooftop hostels, Berber cuisine and a laid-back pace are helping transform the town into one of Morocco's fastest-growing tourism niches.

Bottom line: Morocco is becoming known for more than its medinas and mountains. Its Atlantic coast is quietly building a global reputation for surf, sunshine and slow travel. I am hoping to go soon! 

Thanks for reading. Be sure to visit our reports page if you are looking for some good context for that next presentation. And as always, email us at [email protected].