Eastern Africa is set to experience a landscape of modest economic recovery characterised by a stable median GDP growth rate, indicative of a recovery phase across most nations. However, the region grapples with significant challenges, primarily due to escalating sovereign debts that exert fiscal and monetary constraints, posing risks to sustained economic stability. Amidst this, political uncertainties in several countries further complicate the regional outlook. Despite these challenges, opportunities abound, particularly in the infrastructure and energy sectors, which are key drivers for future growth and development in the region. This intricate balance of growth, economic challenges, and opportunities sets the stage for a dynamic yet challenging year ahead for the Eastern Africa region.

EASTERN AFRICA OUTLOOK 2024

Navigating growth, inflation, and fiscal reforms against a backdrop of rising sovereign debt and geopolitical challenges

Introduction

Sub-Saharan Africa emerges from 2023 with cautious optimism as analysts forecast signs of modest recovery and resilience in the macroeconomic landscape. The region is poised to witness a stable median GDP growth rate of 3.8%, signalling a recovery phase across most nations. But for this growth to make sense, Africa requires a miracle to create decent jobs and develop the Continent.

The region’s resurgence is especially pronounced in the Eastern Africa bloc, which is leading regional GDP growth with an impressive growth average of 6.5%. However, this promising trajectory is not without its hurdles as the region faces significant fiscal pressures, primarily driven by escalating sovereign debts that are tightening financial conditions and posing a substantial challenge to sustained economic stability. This intricate balance of growth and economic challenges sets the stage for another demanding year for the region.

Somalia

Taking Somalia as a case in point, 2024 brings a glimmer of hope and optimism, even as it navigates through complex issues. It’s a reminder that progress, like Rome, isn’t achieved in a single day.

After navigating through decades of internal conflicts, drought, and security challenges, Somalia achieved a significant milestone. In November, it became the eighth nation to join the East Africa Community (EAC), alongside Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This accession marks a pivotal step for Somalia, opening doors for enhanced regional trade and fostering improved relations within the East African Community.

The United Nations Security Council acknowledged Somalia’s progress towards peace by unanimously deciding to lift its long-standing arms embargo. The decision is expected to improve Somalia’s capacity, strengthening its Defence Forces. There is, however, some concern from other stakeholders who fear that this could end up badly given the delicate security situation and the threat posed by Al Shaabab. The Africa Union Peace Mission, which has been providing security, was scheduled to leave Somalia in December; but their departure was rescheduled to allow for smooth transition and an orderly departure. Another set of good news for Somalia was the announcement in December by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank of Somalia’s debt relief to the tune of USD 4.5 billion after the country completed the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative.

Debt relief is critical for Somalia and will mean resources can be refocused to rebuilding the country’s economy, reducing poverty, restoring security and peace, and promoting job creation.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s debt burden severely limits its fiscal flexibility, compelling the Government to prioritise debt repayment and interest over investment in critical sectors. The country’s recent default on its Eurobond payments, which were due in December 2023, is a sign of Ethiopia’s economic vulnerabilities.

Ethiopia’s financial crisis is not an isolated incident but rather a culmination of various compounding factors. Among these are the impacts of the climate crisis, which have severely affected Ethiopia’s agriculture sector, a cornerstone of its economy. Frequent droughts and floods have become a recurring menace, disrupting agricultural productivity and food security. Additionally, the slow recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic has further strained the economy, impeding growth and development initiatives.

The political scene in Ethiopia adds another layer of complexity to the country’s outlook for 2024. Persistent security challenges, particularly in the Tigray and Oromo regions, have not only exacerbated humanitarian concerns but also contributed to economic instability. The instability of last year in some parts of the country, despite the peace agreement between the Government and the TPLF, strains Government resources and focus, diverting attention from essential economic reforms and development projects.

Amidst these challenges, Ethiopia is making strides with significant economic reforms, particularly in opening key sectors such as telecommunications and financial services. These reforms are being lauded by regional and international investors, signalling a potential shift in the country’s economic dynamics. The opening up of previously State-dominated sectors is a strategic move that could address the longstanding issue of Foreign Exchange (FX) shortages. By attracting foreign investment and enhancing competition and efficiency in these sectors, Ethiopia aims to bolster its foreign currency reserves, which are crucial for stabilising the economy and facilitating international trade.

Additionally, these reforms could act as a catalyst for broader economic growth, encouraging more inclusive and sustainable development. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on the Government’s ability to maintain a stable political environment, particularly in addressing ongoing conflicts and security concerns.

The interplay between Ethiopia’s political stability and its ambitious economic reforms will be critical in shaping the country’s economic outlook for 2024, potentially setting a precedent for resilience and growth in the face of adversity.

Kenya

Kenya’s economic and political landscape presents a multifaceted picture. Economically, the country is projected to experience modest growth, with an expected GDP increase of around 5%. Agriculture, tourism, and other industries that continue to innovate and show resilience are the main drivers of this growth.

Kenya’s high debt levels, which are close to 70% of GDP, overshadow its economic prospects. This significant debt load is a major source of worry, especially given the problems with fiscal mismanagement and ongoing accusations of corruption. These factors not only strain the national Budget but also impact investor confidence and economic stability.

Kenya’s political landscape is complicated, with the fallout from the contentious elections of August 2022 playing a role. Reform initiatives aimed at reducing corruption and improving fiscal management often encounter obstacles in the form of systemic and entrenched interests that resist change. These political dynamics have a direct impact on the business climate.

Frequent and sometimes abrupt changes in tax laws and regulatory policies create a challenging and often uncertain environment for businesses. The unpredictability affects both investment decisions and operational stability, posing a deterrent to foreign investment and complicating financial planning for businesses operating within the country.

Kenya faces a critical fiscal juncture as its USD 2 billion Eurobond approaches maturity in June 2024. To avert a default and maintain its creditworthiness, the Kenyan Government must strategically address this looming debt obligation. Implementing additional tax burdens on an already over taxed populace or divesting State-owned enterprises may not be the most feasible solutions. Effective debt management strategies and fiscal prudence are imperative to ensure repayment without compromising vital public investments in healthcare, education, and security, which are essential for the well-being of its citizens.

The Government’s assurance to creditors about managing this obligation as planned is a positive step. However, it’s crucial to explore alternative financial strategies, such as restructuring the debt, negotiating for extended maturity terms, or seeking favourable refinancing options. These approaches could alleviate immediate fiscal pressures while safeguarding critical sectoral investments. Successfully navigating this debt repayment in June would provide Kenya with a temporary fiscal reprieve, easing pressures until the next set of Eurobond repayments of USD 1.9 billion due in 2027-2028.

As Kenya progresses through 2024, the management of its sovereign debt, coupled with astute economic and political decisions, will be pivotal in determining its economic path and influence within both the regional and global economic landscape.

Uganda

Uganda is forecast to grow at an impressive 6% in 2024. The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project is at the forefront of the burgeoning oil and gas sector, which is what is primarily driving this growth trajectory. EACOP, a landmark initiative, is a symbol of Uganda’s resource wealth but also a beacon of new economic opportunities, promising to stimulate various sectors and create employment.

Beyond oil and gas, agriculture remains the bedrock of Uganda’s economy. This sector, traditional yet dynamic, continues to support a significant portion of the population, contributing substantially to the GDP and ensuring food security. Complementing this is the expanding services sector, notably in areas like information and communication technology, which is rapidly becoming a vital cog in Uganda’s economic engine.

Fiscal issues temper Uganda’s robust growth. The country’s debt-to-GDP ratio, hovering around the 50% mark, is indicative of substantial investments in infrastructure and energy. These investments, while essential for long-term growth, necessitate astute debt management to avoid potential fiscal pitfalls.

Inflation, another critical economic indicator, is projected at around 6.5%. This rate, although manageable, requires prudent monetary policies to maintain economic stability and safeguard the purchasing power of Ugandans. The balancing act between stimulating growth and controlling inflation will be a crucial test for the nation’s economic policymakers.

On the political front, President Yoweri Museveni’s long-standing tenure (almost four decades) provides a degree of continuity and relative calm. However, this continuity comes with its own set of challenges, notably concerns regarding democratic processes and governance reforms. The political climate in Uganda, therefore, remains a watchpoint, with implications for policy consistency and the investment environment.

Tanzania

Tanzania’s macroeconomic outlook for 2024 is shaping up to be positive, reflecting the ongoing efforts of President Samia Suluhu’s administration in terms of political and economic reforms. According to the African Development Bank, the country is expected to witness a significant uptick in real GDP growth, reaching 6.3% in 2024.

The ongoing investments in the country’s infrastructure projects are also a major contributor to this growth. Key among these is the focus on the Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector and pipeline projects. These initiatives are central to enhancing Tanzania’s energy sector and opening new avenues for economic growth and development.

The strategic development of LPG infrastructure is particularly crucial for Tanzania, considering the country’s vast natural gas reserves, estimated at over 57 trillion cubic feet. The Government’s plans to expand LPG infrastructure, including storage facilities and distribution networks, aim to increase the accessibility and affordability of gas for domestic use, reducing reliance on imported oil and wood fuels. This shift not only boosts energy security but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals.

EACOP, co-developed with Uganda, is expected to cost USD 5 billion, reflecting an increase from the original estimate of USD 3.5 billion. This cost escalation is attributed to rising prices for key inputs like steel and increased loan costs. EACOP, primarily financed through a 60-40 debt-to-equity split, is a crucial component in commercialising Lake Albert’s oil resources. The 1,443-km pipeline, running from Hoima in Uganda to the Indian Ocean Port of Tanga in Tanzania, represents a significant investment and is expected to have substantial economic impacts for the region. The pipeline project, despite facing environmental criticism, is anticipated to play a pivotal role in boosting both Tanzania’s and Uganda’s economies and enhancing regional energy infrastructure.

Rwanda

Rwanda’s macroeconomic outlook for 2024 is characterised by strong growth and a declining fiscal deficit. The economy is projected to grow by 8.5%, driven by the recovery in agricultural production, exports, and conference tourism. Inflation is expected to reduce to 5.6%, with fiscal consolidation and increased domestic revenue contributing to a decrease in the fiscal deficit. The current account deficit is also anticipated to narrow. The decreasing inflation and fiscal deficit indicate a stabilising economy. However, they must remain cognizant of geopolitical risks and global economic impacts. The Kigali Financial Centre plays a crucial role in promoting investment by facilitating access to financial services and fostering a conducive environment for business. It’s a strategic hub for attracting regional and international investments, which is crucial for Rwanda’s economic development.

Conclusion

Amidst this, political uncertainties in several countries further complicate the regional outlook. Despite these challenges, opportunities abound, particularly in the infrastructure and energy sectors, which are key drivers for future growth and development in the region. This intricate balance of growth, economic challenges, and opportunities sets the stage for a dynamic yet challenging year ahead for the Eastern Africa region.

This regional summary is by Agnes Gitau – Executive Director – UK & Europe

This is a commentary and comments are welcome by email to info@eaa-lon.co.uk

Commentary: EASTERN AFRICA OUTLOOK 2024