Trade Links: Indonesian and West African businesses explored joint ventures across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy, infrastructure and other sectors, with 44 West African companies taking part. Côte d’Ivoire was among six markets targeted for expanded Indonesian exports. Borrowing Costs: African policymakers are calling for more transparent credit ratings, arguing that inflated risk premiums raise borrowing costs and restrict development funding. The newly launched Africa Credit Rating Agency is intended to offer another assessment of the continent’s economies. Energy Investment: Côte d’Ivoire is seeking more than $10 billion by 2030 for oil and gas development, pipelines, LNG facilities, power generation and fuel distribution, with state-owned Petroci seeking investors and technical partners. Cocoa Resilience: Ivorian researchers have identified 11 cocoa varieties that show promise under water stress, a key effort for a crop that contributes about 15% of national GDP and supports five million people. Regional Power: The West African Power Pool plans to launch the next phase of its electricity market early next year, aiming to expand cross-border trade and strengthen supply. Growth Outlook: The IMF forecasts African growth of 4.5% this year and 5% in 2027, but warns that falling aid and rising debt costs leave countries exposed to future shocks.