In this episode, Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank’s Chief Economist for Africa, speaks with Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership Group, about how Africa’s rapidly growing workforce, expanding tech‑training ecosystem, and new models of education and leadership development are positioning the continent as a global talent engine. The conversation highlights emerging digital opportunities, innovative talent pipelines, and why Africa could play a defining role in the future of work.

Mission 300 is working to connect 300 million people in sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030, focusing on both access and reliability. In this episode, Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank’s Chief Economist for Africa, talks with Regional Practice Directors Franz Drees-Gross and Erik Fernstrom to share fresh insights into Mission 300, the flagship initiative to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030. Covering sector reforms, financial challenges, and how energy access supports economic growth, job creation, and opportunity for both households and businesses, this episode illuminates why Mission 300 is critical to Africa's future.

In this episode of Afronomics, host Andrew Dabalen speaks with Dr. Ken Opalo, a leading scholar on African political economy and governance. Opalo, an associate professor at Georgetown University and author of Legislative Development in Africa. Dr. Opalo shares sharp insights on the rise of public protests, the limits of electoral democracy, and the urgent need for African governments to rebuild trust through better service delivery and inclusive growth. The conversation explores bold ideas for reform, including stronger political institutions, elite consensus, and homegrown development strategies. For more on the topic of service delivery in Africa, you can turn to our recent report: CPIA Africa: Better Policies for Service Delivery.