But observers see that Algerian diplomatic blunders are discouraging Sahel countries from engaging with Algiers. These announcements were met with no enthusiasm by Sahel countries where young leaders are taking their distances from the Algerian regime. Most Moroccan investments in Africa and the Sahel in particular are led by a vibrant private sector. Sahel countries are right to question how a country with such import restrictions would enter into a free trade agreement? Before trying to compete with Morocco economically in the Sahel, Algeria should have launched reforms to diversify its economy and improve the competitiveness of its small private sector.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 19, 2024 11:43 UTC