Africa is experiencing a relatively healthy growth period economically, as the international demand for African resources has ultimately aided in the continent's resurgence. Currently, five out of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world are in Africa (South Sudan, Libya, Sierra Leone, the Gambia and Mozambique), according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This concrete, sustainable, and attractive growth will allow for plenty of economic opportunities on the continent. Due in part to this economic upturn, Africa is emerging as an attractive and valued customer on the international arms market. Although Africa may not offer the scope of opportunities presented by other, larger markets, the true value to be gained is drawn from African security issues that mirror the global security climate. Key drivers look to remain crime, border security, and military modernization initiatives. However, the need to counter terrorism and piracy threats has also started to have a major hand in Africa's increasing defense expenditures.
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