PARIS, France, January 16, 2025 – Leading financial institutions in Africa’s energy sector are set to take the stage at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris, where they will share strategic insights on financing solutions that will drive Africa’s energy transition and infrastructure growth. Scheduled for May 13-14, 2025, the forum will explore investment strategies, emerging market dynamics, and financing solutions required to unlock Africa’s vast energy potential.

Key speakers at the event will include Liz Williamson, Head of Energy Corporate Finance at Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), Admassu Tadesse, Group President & Managing Director of Trade Development Bank (TDB), and Taiwo Okwor, Vice President of Investment at Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). These leaders are expected to address the critical role of finance in advancing Africa’s energy transition and highlight the innovative funding strategies needed for large-scale projects across the continent.

Rand Merchant Bank’s Role in Energy Financing

Rand Merchant Bank has long been at the forefront of financing energy and infrastructure projects across Africa. Recently, in collaboration with the European Investment Bank, RMB’s holding company, FirstRand Bank, launched a €400 million initiative aimed at expanding renewable energy projects in South Africa. The initiative is set to enhance the country’s clean energy supply, reduce carbon emissions, and create jobs, reflecting RMB’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy transition.

Trade Development Bank’s Pioneering Initiatives

The Trade and Development Bank (TDB) has been instrumental in financing high-impact energy infrastructure projects that promote sustainability across Africa. One of its key initiatives includes a $150 million Trade Finance Risk Participation Agreement with the African Development Bank, designed to boost intra-African trade and regional integration. TDB also secured a $100 million facility from British International Investment to finance essential imports and exports for African markets. These initiatives are vital to strengthening Africa’s energy infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity.

Africa Finance Corporation’s Commitment to Clean Energy

Africa Finance Corporation has consistently been a leader in large-scale infrastructure financing, with a particular focus on energy projects. In January 2025, AFC announced plans to invest over $3 billion in critical infrastructure projects, including those that support cleaner energy sources. Notable investments include a transnational railway connecting Zambia’s mines to Angola’s Port of Lobito, as well as projects in renewable energy, electrification, agriculture, and eco-tourism. AFC’s contributions are key to the continent’s transition to sustainable energy, and their presence at IAE 2025 will showcase the financing solutions that support Africa’s energy evolution.

The IAE 2025 Forum offers two days of in-depth discussions and networking opportunities between industry experts, project developers, investors, and policymakers. As Africa seeks to meet its growing energy demand while addressing climate change, this event will provide a platform to discuss innovative financing models and the collaboration needed to realize the continent’s energy goals.

For more information about the forum or to participate as a delegate or sponsor, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com or contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

This event promises to be a key milestone in the push for sustainable and transformative energy solutions across Africa.