companies' overall transshipment networks, the South African financial newspaper Business Day reported March 2001.

The surge in shipping is leading many African states to now plan for upgrades in container terminals and intermodal capabilities; expansion and developments of roads, railways and inland dry ports; and in cross-border transportation.

The Future, Logistically

From a logistical standpoint, Africa is far behind most developed and many other developing economies. The near constant problems of political

instability, corruption, lack of communication infrastructure and financing, high insurance costs and limited local market opportunities all remain key barriers to development.

Despite the many obstacles that remain, the push for economic ties and the growing political necessity will lead to a surge in investment in the continent. This will translate in the short- to mid-term into a gold rush of investment in Africa and especially in western Africa's transportation infrastructure.

Map courtesy of STRATFOR.com

Additional analysis from STRATFOR.com can be found in our LINKS section or at:
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This article is reprinted with permission from the publisher.