Country Risk Rating

Despite widespread criticism over its perceived failure to affect the ongoing political crisis in Zimbabwe, the South African government remains committed to playing a larger international... 2004-09-28

Inflation continues to decline, standing at 362.9% for the year ending July. Part of the explanation is statistical base effects, but it seems that monetary control was better in... 2004-09-10

The government says its image of being deeply corrupt is no longer fair. Certainly, the IMF concedes it is becoming more open, and the World Bank believes progress on reform has been... 2004-09-09

Although globally respected as a true democracy, Mauritius has few opportunities to raise its profile on the international stage. Such an opening has come with the country's assumption... 2004-09-09

The main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has announced that it will boycott all future elections until such time as democratic reforms are adopted. Its leadership... 2004-09-06

ANC policies over the past decade have focused on creating an environment conducive to stable economic growth, with poverty reduction and service extension deemed secondary (though... 2004-09-02

Donors are indicating that while they see some good aspects of the government's current drive against corruption, the results so far will not unlock the assistance most of them have... 2004-08-12

A general election is scheduled for October, which, as in the past, is likely to be truly free and fair. However, like in a number of countries in the region, the incumbent party... 2004-08-09

Presidential and parliamentary elections have been set for November 15 and 16. The South West African People's Organisation (SWAPO), the only party that has ruled since independence... 2004-08-09

The New National Party (NNP), the successor to the National Party which introduced apartheid and ruled South Africa for 46 years, has merged with the ruling ANC following its dismal... 2004-08-09