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Knowledge, Technology, and Cluster-Based Growth in Africa (WBI Development Studies) (Wbi Development Studies)
Knowledge Technology and ClusterBased Growth in Africa - WBI Development Studies - Wbi Development Studies Author:Douglas Zhihua Zeng Recent expansions in economic activity in Africa point to a potentially brighter future for the continent. Although weaknesses in the region persist, certain pockets of economic vitality are contributing to national, regional, and local economic growth. Many of these pockets take the form of enterprise clusters--groups of firms engaged in a simi... more »lar or related economic activity within the national economy-- that help enterprises gain access to capital, skills, technology, and markets. The dynamics of enterprise clusters can promote growth and competition through the more effective diffusion of know-how, access to global knowledge and technology stocks, product specialization based on local comparative advantage, creation of production value chains, and gains in efficiency. How were these clusters formed and how did they evolve? What are the key elements contributing to their success? How can knowledge and technology be put to work to generate economic growth even in low-income countries? Are these clusters sustainable and replicable? The case studies presented in this book are the work of international and local consultants who have been working on African clusters, with evidence gathered through desk study, field visits, and surveys. This book describes how enterprise clusters were formed and have evolved in Africa, and assesses the sustainability challenges they face. It includes eleven country case studies intended to raise awareness in the international development community of the growth dynamics at work in the private sector in Africa.« less