Sub-Saharan Africa's economy contracted by 2.0% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but prospects for recovery are strengthening as countries take actions to contain new virus waves and speed up vaccinations. Growth is forecast to rise between 2.3-3.4% in 2021, though a second pandemic wave is dragging projections down slightly. Digital technologies will be key to driving future job growth across Africa. The report recommends countries boost recovery by supporting vulnerable groups, complemented by reforms to spur inclusive productivity and competitiveness through investments in areas like education, health, infrastructure, and reducing debt.