One global view of Africa is as a hidden, fragmented continent. In many circles like business, however, there are well-connected, interwoven networks spanning the social, business, and political spheres, as well as the continent. For example, the presidents of countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) today fought in struggles against colonial systems and are considered comrades, and several of them lead major economic systems. This has implications for economic development and dynamics in Africa. This poster introduces the context upon which further research is based. Presented at Duke Political Networks Conference 2010 on May 20, 2010 in Raleigh, NC.