Africa, America and the world — in conversation.
Section
Technology
The World Bank's "Small AI, Big Jobs" flagship opened its Bangkok program on Oct. 12. Its research finds 4.5% of jobs in poorer countries at risk from AI versus 14.2% in rich ones; Banga says most of 1.2 billion new workers will be in Africa.
Economics
The IMF–World Bank meetings open in Bangkok under an energy shock from the closed Strait of Hormuz. Banga warns of fuel and fertilizer costs; developing countries fear IMF austerity conditions could spark unrest.
Economics
At the IMF–World Bank meetings, the Republic of Congo has progressed toward a new IMF agreement, Gabon is in preliminary talks, and Cameroon's 2027 budget support depends on a new program. BEAC and CEMAC still owe IMF commitments.
Economics
Thailand declared Oct. 16 a special Bangkok holiday and ordered government work-from-home days as more than 15,000 delegates attend the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings, the first in Thailand since 1991.
Economics
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is skipping the IMF–World Bank meetings in Bangkok; deputies Francis Brooke and Erin Browne lead the U.S. delegation. The African Union is pushing debt-resolution reform at four side events Oct. 13–16.
Economics
The World Bank forecasts 4.3% growth in sub-Saharan Africa in 2026, while rising inflation and debt-service costs constrain jobs and public investment.
Development
A new World Bank assessment highlights South African investment gains. Official electricity data and loan documents reveal both progress and unfinished work.
