Africa’s big three lose grip as new economic powers emerge

    Oluwatobi Ojabello | Editor’s picks | Apr 07, 2026    
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For decades, Africa’s economic identity was anchored in a familiar triumvirate: South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria. Together, these three nations accounted for the bulk of the continent’s economic output in nominal terms. According to the International Monetary Fund’s latest projections for 2026, South Africa’s economy is expected to reach about $444 billion, Egypt around $399 billion, and Nigeria approximately $334 billion.

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