The US will host most African leaders at a three-day summit focusing on trade, investment, security and governance issues.

The Tripartite Free Trade Area to be established by 2015 will enable greater intra-African trade, writes Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.

The ratings agency warns that MTN’s new business model, which foresees ongoing growth on the continent, also exposes it to less certainty.

Trade has been the most important driver of international growth over the past 60 years and is a key to creating jobs in emerging markets such as SA.

India has spread a mix of aid, education and technology transfers through Africa, hoping it will pay out in the scramble for natural resources.