INVESTMENT |
Africa Attracts $70 Billion in Foreign Investment as Investors Target Energy and Minerals
UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2026 shows FDI into Africa was the third-highest on record in 2025, with Egypt leading and investors focusing on energy, critical minerals and logistics.
Geneva, Switzerland. Foreign direct investment into Africa reached about $70 billion in 2025, according to UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2026. That is below the $94 billion of 2024, which was boosted by a handful of very large deals, but it is still the third-highest level since 1990 and about a third above the long-term average.
Egypt remained Africa's largest recipient at around $15 billion, keeping North Africa the leading sub-region. African least developed countries took in about $33 billion.
Smaller projects, broader reach
The value of new greenfield projects fell by almost a third, but the number of announced projects rose, showing companies are still committing capital through smaller investments.
Three drivers stand out: demand for energy infrastructure, critical minerals for batteries and advanced manufacturing, and new industrial and logistics hubs as global supply chains shift. Namibia and other resource-rich economies are drawing attention for battery minerals.
The harder part
UNCTAD warns that winning investment is only the first step. Turning it into lasting local industry and jobs requires reliable power, skills and policies that link foreign investors to domestic suppliers.
Key Points
- About $70bn FDI in 2025
- Third-highest since 1990
- Egypt top recipient (~$15bn)
- Energy, minerals and logistics lead