Investments in Sub Saharan Africa : The Role of International Arbitration in Dispute Settlement

Africa has grown significantly in this decade and is attracting investors. Economic growth can however be cyclical and the World is now going through a major economic downturn and Africa is not exempted. In different countries, including African States, parties may find themselves in positions where they cannot meet their contractual requirements and this will lead to a dispute. This paper considers the arbitration mechanisms for resolving such disputes relating to investments in Sub Saharan Africa. It will look at Nigeria and Angola and the avenues for arbitration in disputes relating to them. It will conclude that structures exist for international arbitration relating to investments in many African countries but that there is still a need for more countries develop similar structures and sign up to international arbitration initiatives