The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) is pushing to unlock billions from African pension funds, aiming to bolster domestic investment amid potential declines in Western aid.
AFC CEO Samaila Zubairu emphasizes mobilizing local capital as geopolitical shifts alter funding flows.
He envisions $15-$20 billion in long-term investments from African pension funds.
The AFC is scaling up fund allocation to attract external capital, focusing on bankable projects.
The InfraCredit pilot project in Nigeria, leveraging sovereign wealth fund guarantees, has already mobilized 230 billion naira.
Similar programs are planned for Botswana, Angola, and Kenya this year.
These initiatives aim to redirect pension fund investments from government debt to crucial infrastructure.
Zubairu remains confident in the Lobito Corridor’s progress, regardless of U.S. funding decisions.
He believes African nations should strategically utilize reserves for investment and growth, rather than solely focusing on import cover.
The AFC also plans to expand bond sales in the Middle East and China, diversifying its funding sources.
