Two people opened their eyes wide: One saw mud while the other saw stars. They were in the same geographical position. They were both breathing in oxygen and   out carbon dioxide-but when they opened their eyes wide, they saw different things. The difference was where they set their gaze. One looked up; the other looked down. What do you see when you face Africa? What comes to your mind when African governments are mentioned?

Without beating about the bush, various authors in this edition candidly present their viewpoints on Africa. What comes out clearly is that Africa is determined to tread the development path. like the proverbial lizard that fell from a tree but received no praise, Africa has areas of strength to praise herself  in spite of accusing fingers leveled at her nose. On the other hand, the continent has an awesome task shedding the excess baggage that impedes its effort to advance.

For small-business owners, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) presents the classic capitalist proposition: If you're willing to take huge risks, you could reap huge rewards. The 50-plus countries of SSA feature numerous dynamic and developing markets. About 30 of this region's countries have implemented economic reform in the past decade to replace state-centralized systems, meaning their free markets are ripe for the picking.

The hottest sectors begging investment include: telecommunications, information technology, software, agribusiness, power generation, health care, financial services, environmental technologies and general infrastructure. 

 "To be successful there,” says Judy Carson, "you have to already be viable and have a serious plan.” It is not a region for entrepreneurs who are afraid to bet big. "There are a lot of opportunities for large returns," she says, "but Africa definitely isn't for the weak of heart.”

 Indeed, the serious ones who will see economic prospects will reap from Africa’s treasures. Join the authors as they help you see Africa!