“Wal-Mart is eyeing Africa, and has decided to start its push into the continent by offering $4.1 billion for South Africa’s third biggest retailer, Massmart, reports Reuters. … Wal-Mart’s bid comes as South Africa has sought to elevate its profile as a nation primed for investment… Analysts told Reuters that Wal-Mart’s offer is “a big vote of confidence for the South African retail economy and for South Africa” but that a Wal-Mart takeover will have a notable impact on pricing and competition between South African retailers.”
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE68Q0RA20100927
While I have mixed feelings on Walmart and their impact on communities, employees and some other things I see this as probably a good thing for South Africa which during my visit this year seemed like a country ready to step up (I was really impressed despite their problems, the way they ran the world cup.).