U.S. Deepens Commitment to African Energy at USAEF.

Monday 4th August 2025

Por inAfrika Reporter

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is set to headline the U.S.–Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) in Houston with Director Selam Demissie as a key speaker. As African energy projects continue to face early-stage financing gaps, the DFC is stepping in with tools like political risk insurance, equity investments, and long-term loans to attract private capital. The agency offers coverage of up to $1 billion per project to protect investors from political risks and currency issues.

Recent investments include a $553 million loan to upgrade the Lobito Atlantic Railway, enhancing the transport of critical minerals like cobalt and copper from the DRC to Angola. The DFC is also backing gas and infrastructure projects in countries like Mozambique, where its support has been vital for LNG facility development despite operational and security challenges.

The DFC’s presence at USAEF highlights its intention to reshape how U.S. capital engages with Africa’s energy sector. By de-risking projects and crowding in commercial investment, the DFC is becoming central to energy and mineral supply chain development. The move reflects a broader U.S. strategy to secure clean energy inputs and ensure resilient infrastructure.

The agency’s expanding role signals confidence in Africa’s potential and is expected to unlock stalled projects across the continent, offering a new model for U.S.–Africa collaboration.