Enhancing Africa's competitiveness: policy issues in natural resources and science and technology

Abstract

The paper discusses the concept of competitiveness and how the concept has evolved over time. This analysis is useful to understand and assess the current state of competitiveness in Africa and how competitiveness can be enhanced. Then the role of natural resources in long-term development is examined and some development or strategic issues facing natural resources-rich countries are discussed. Some practical implications on public policies are formulated and a framework for possible areas of policy intervention is suggested together with some specific policy instruments that can be used to enhance the competitiveness of African countries. The paper also briefly analyses the role of competition in development and how it has proved to be a very powerful force shaping the technological and economic progress of nations throughout history.