Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) has secured a record-breaking $2 billion syndicated loan, highlighting growing confidence from international investors in the organisation’s efforts to drive infrastructure and industrial development across Africa.
The financing deal, which was initially launched at $1.6 billion, attracted strong interest from lenders around the world and was eventually increased to $2 billion. The successful fundraising comes despite ongoing global economic uncertainty and market volatility.
According to AFC, banks from different regions participated in the transaction, with institutions from Asia-Pacific and Europe each accounting for 35 percent of the funding. Financial institutions from the Middle East contributed 25 percent, while African lenders provided the remaining 5 percent. This broad participation reflects increasing global support for AFC’s long-term vision of transforming Africa through strategic infrastructure investments.
The new funding will strengthen AFC’s ability to expand investments in key sectors such as energy, transportation, logistics, technology, and industrial development. The corporation believes that these sectors are essential for creating jobs, boosting trade, and improving economic competitiveness across the continent.
AFC has continued to strengthen its financial standing over the years. The corporation recently received improved investment-grade ratings from major international rating agencies. Earlier this year, S&P Global Ratings assigned AFC an ‘A’ / A-1 rating with a positive outlook, complementing its existing A3 rating from Moody’s and A+ rating from the Japan Credit Rating Agency.
Speaking on the achievement, AFC President and Chief Executive Officer, Samaila Zubairu, said Africa’s future growth will depend on interconnected infrastructure systems rather than isolated projects. He explained that integrating energy, transport, logistics, industry, and technology can unlock greater economic opportunities across the continent.
Zubairu noted that AFC has positioned itself at the center of Africa’s transformation by developing infrastructure platforms that support industrialisation, job creation, and long-term economic growth.
The financing milestone comes during a period of expansion for the corporation. AFC recently announced plans to establish its first regional office outside Lagos in Nairobi. The announcement was made during the corporation’s flagship event, The Africa We Build Summit.
The corporation’s growth has also been reflected in its financial performance and continental reach. AFC’s total assets have now exceeded $19 billion, while its membership has expanded to 48 African countries.
In addition to attracting international funding, AFC said the new facility supports its broader goal of mobilising African institutional capital, including pension funds, for critical infrastructure projects. This objective aligns with recommendations outlined in the corporation’s recent infrastructure report focused on closing Africa’s financing gap.
The syndicated loan was coordinated by several leading global banks, including Barclays, Commerzbank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and FirstRand Bank through its Rand Merchant Bank division. Numerous financial institutions from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa also participated in the transaction.
AFC Executive Board Member and Head of Financial Services, Banji Fehintola, described the successful fundraising as a major milestone for the corporation. He said the strong backing from international lenders demonstrates confidence in AFC’s financial strength, strategic direction, and ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects that create lasting economic benefits across Africa.
With this record funding secured, AFC is expected to accelerate major infrastructure and industrial projects aimed at supporting Africa’s economic development and long-term prosperity.
