Sierra Leone’s export development authorities are working to revitalize the ginger industry, a route out of poverty after years of war. This story is based on an interview with Abu Bakkar Kebbay, from the export development agency of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Africa has traditionally not been on the radar screen of foreign direct investors. The reasons include the “Balkanization” of the continent and hence its small markets, its weak infrastructure and an image problem: in much of the world Africa’s image is dominated by pictures of civil war, sickness and famine.

Tanzania is working to make itself better known to attract foreign buyers and tourists.

Countries are putting priority on trade-related assistance in this new model for financing development projects, by the Millennium Challenge Corporation.

A new partnership to develop trade in Africa will back up the efforts of businesses and governments at a time when Africa’s trade prospects are looking up.