The definitive guide to the most recent economic and political trends, developments and key events in the region* Key indicators and profiles for 55 countries* Leading-edge expertise from some of the world s top journalists and regional specialists * Key facts and essential business directory informationOf interest to academic, public and corporate libraries; economic, geography and international relations specialists; professional, trade and government organizations; exporters and international investors."Africa Review 2003/4" is the only reference work of its kind to cover the whole continent. The 25th edition provides both an analytical overview of the region and specific data for each of the 55 countries that make up the African continent. Introductory chapters cover regional issues including: a review of this year s trends, developments and key events; the impact of the water crisis; the economic and social devastation of AIDS; the effects of western trade barriers and subsidies on agriculture; future opportunities for African oil-producing nations.The main body of the book provides comprehensive economic and business reports for each country and includes: * Political and economic surveys identifying the trends, developments, problems and solutions * Country profiles, which analyze the different economic sectors of each country, summarizes its political parties and system, and provides condensed background information on a range of other important topics including demographics, languages, and industry sectors* Key facts with vital statistics for the country being analyzed* Business guide offering practical information for visitors to the country * Key indicators setting out thecountry s key economic indicators over the last five years* Business directory listing the names and addresses of local organizations useful to visitors.